2015-2016 Registration Guide - Community High School District 99

Transcription

2015-2016 Registration Guide - Community High School District 99
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2015-2016 Registration Guide
Community High School District 99
Downers Grove, Illinois 60516
www.csd99.org
(630) 795-7100
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Registration Process
Definition of Terms
Graduation Requirements
Post-Secondary Planning/NCAA Eligibility
Occupational and Career Planning
Advanced Placement Information
Athletic and Student Activity Eligibility
Audit of a Class
Changing Course Requests
Course Load
Criteria for Courses to be Taught
Course Repeats
Dual Credit
Early Graduation
Grade Level Assignment
Independent Study
Pass-Fail Course Grading Option
Physical Examination/Immunization
Proficiency Credit
Registration Fees and Refunds
School Day
School Records
Summer School
Weighted Grades
Withdrawing from a Scheduled Class
Introduction to Teaching
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3
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4-6
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7
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7
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8
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9
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10
10-11
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12
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Academic Courses
Career & Technical Education
English & Communication
Fine Arts
Mathematics
Physical Education, Health & Driver Education
Science
Social Studies
Special Services
Technology Center of DuPage
World Language
14-22
23-35
36-47
48-52
53-58
59-65
66-71
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73-74
75-82
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REGISTRATION PROCESS
Each year, with the advice and consultation of parents or guardians, students should seriously consider their
educational and career goals and develop a program of study to work toward those goals.
In planning for the 2015-2016 school year, students and parents should consider:
1. Do the courses meet graduation requirements?
2. Do the courses meet the student’s needs for anticipated college or career choice?
3. Do the courses match this student’s ability level and expand or develop his/her interests?
This Registration Guide will help students and parents plan a high school program based on these selected goals.
Parents are highly encouraged to be actively involved with their student in selecting an appropriate program of
courses for the coming year by:
1. Reading and discussing this Registration Guide with their student.
2. Reviewing Interim Progress Reports (IPR) and Student Report Cards.
3. Discussing the appropriate course selection with the student’s current teachers and counselor.
Teachers and the high school counselor will assist with this planning, but the final decisions in program planning are
reserved for students and parents. Please contact your student’s school counselor at South High School at (630) 7958570 or North High School (630) 795-8470. Additional course planning tools are available on each school’s
Counseling Student Support Services website.
REGISTRATION DATES
Class of 2016 Registration
DGN- Week of Feb. 2
DGS – Week of Jan. 26
DGN- Week of Feb. 9
DGS – Week of Feb. 2
DGN- Week of Jan. 26
DGS – Week of Feb. 9
DGN – Thurs. Feb. 5th
DGS – Mon. Jan. 26th
DGN – Feb. 7th
DGS – Jan. 31st
Class of 2017 Registration
Class of 2018 Registration
Class of 2019 Class of 2019 Orientation Night
Class of 2019 Registration
DEFINITION OF TERMS
CREDIT is the measure of school achievement. A student receives one-half credit for successful completion of the
work in a course that meets daily for a minimum of one period for one semester. A student receives one credit for
successful completion of work in a course that meets daily for one period for a full year. For students who transfer
from another school, credits will be evaluated to determine what classes are needed for the student to meet District
99 graduation requirements.
A PREREQUISITE is a course or condition which a student must complete or meet before the course may be taken.
A REQUIRED COURSE is a course which a student must successfully complete in order to earn a District 99
diploma.
An ELECTIVE COURSE is a course which a student may choose to take to earn a District 99 diploma.
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REQUIREMENTS FOR GRADUATION
ENGLISH/LANGUAGE ARTS
4 Credits
PHYSICAL EDUCATION
4 Credits
A student must be enrolled in Physical Education each semester that he or she is enrolled in school. Enrollment in Health and
Driver Education is considered enrollment in Physical Education.
DRIVER EDUCATION - The classroom phase of Driver Education is required of all students. Safety education is a part of
the instruction. Driver Education fulfills 1/2 credit of the 4 credit Physical Education requirement. In order to be eligible for
Driver Education, the State of Illinois requires students have passed eight courses (four credits) during the previous two
semesters prior to taking Driver Ed.
HEALTH - The required health course fulfills 1/2 credit of the 4 credit Physical Education requirement. The Health course
must be taken during the Sophomore year.
MATHEMATICS
At least one credit must be earned in an Algebra course (or Math 1) and one in a Geometry course
(or Math 2 or Consumer Math)
3 Credits
SOCIAL STUDIES
One credit of Global Connections, one credit of United States History, and one credit of Social Studies
Electives selected by student.
3 Credits
SCIENCE
One credit must be earned in a Biology (Life Science) course, and one credit must be earned in a
Physical Science course.
2 Credits
CAREER AND TECHNICAL EDUCATION
1/2 Credit
This requirement may be met by successfully passing a course in Business, Family and Consumer Science,
Industrial Technology, or a course taken through the Technology Center of DuPage.
FINE ARTS
1/2 Credit
This requirement may be met by successfully passing a course in Art, Music or specified courses in the English area.
CONSUMER EDUCATION
1/2 Credit
This requirement may be met by successfully passing any of the following courses: Consumer Math (Mathematics), Personal
Economics (Social Studies) or Consumer Education (Career and Technical Education.) The Consumer Education course also
meets the Career and Technical Education requirement. Personal Economics also meets one semester of social studies
graduation requirement. The full-year course in Consumer Math also meets the Mathematics requirement. In order to meet the
Consumer Education requirement by taking Consumer Math, a student must complete the full-year course. A student may not
receive credit for more than one consumer course.
TOTAL CREDITS NEEDED TO EARN A DISTRICT 99 DIPLOMA
22 Credits
CONSTITUTION TEST
Each student must pass examinations on the federal and state constitutions, Declaration of Independence and the proper use and
display of the American Flag. The test is given as a part of the US History courses.
POST-SECONDARY PLANNING
Requirements for college admissions vary from school to school. Below are some guidelines that will help assure
the student will have the appropriate high school courses. The Illinois State Board of Higher Education has set the
following requirements for the class which will be admitted to the state universities this year. It is recommended all
college bound students attempt to meet these requirements.
• 4 credits of English
• 3 credits of Mathematics (Math 1, Math 2, Advanced Algebra/Math 3)
• 3 credits of a Laboratory Science
• 3 credits of Social Studies
• 2 credits of the same World Language, Art, Music, or Drama
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Most college and universities highly encourage students to take 4 years of Mathematics (up through Advanced
Algebra Trig) in order to properly prepare for post-secondary study in Mathematics. Some selective universities
expect four-year sequences in these college preparatory subjects. In addition to course requirements, colleges
consider grades and college admission test scores. Many colleges are especially concerned about the student’s senior
year. Therefore, seniors should be sure to plan a challenging program for their final year in high school. To
learn the admission requirements of a particular school, students should check the current college website for
accurate information about courses, grades, rank, and recommendation requirements. The personal recommendation
required by some colleges includes input from school personnel on such characteristics as ability, motivation and
responsibility. It also may include a statement about participation and leadership in extracurricular activities. One of
the most heavily weighted areas of consideration in the college admission process is the rigor of a student’s high
school academic record. Close scrutiny is given in assessing if the student took the most challenging courses
possible. Colleges place emphasis on the high school grades which a student has earned because these grades are
the best predictors of success in college. The semester grades of all students are averaged cumulatively and
percentile ranks are assigned.
Most colleges require each applicant submit scores from a college admission test, typically the College Entrance
Examination Board (SAT I) or the American College Testing organization (ACT).
Testing schedules, bulletins of information and applications for these exams are in the College & Career Centers at
each campus. Students are strongly encouraged to work closely with their counselor in the post high school planning
process. Parents and students are encouraged to use the College and Career website and Family
Connection/Naviance for pertinent post high school planning.
THE NATIONAL COLLEGIATE ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION (NCAA)
The National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) has established initial academic eligibility requirements for
participation in college athletics at the Division I and II levels. These requirements are certified through the NCAA
Eligibility Center. Student-athletes are recommended to apply online to the NCAA Eligibility Center after sixth
semester grades are posted. Students are encouraged to meet with their high school counselor for additional
information. More information can be found at:
www.eligibilitycenter.org or call toll-free at 1-877-262-1492
The NCAA Eligibility Center has approved the following District 99 courses for use
in establishing the certification of student-athletes.
ENGLISH
AP English Language & Composition
English IV: Humanities/Critical Expressions
AP English Literature & Composition
English IV: Journalistic Expression & Media Literacy
English & Communication I, II, III
English IV: Literary Expression
English IV: Effective Expression
English IV: Oral Expression
English & Communication I, II H
English IV: Realms of Possibility
English IV: Critical Lenses
English IV: Transformation and Triumph
English IV: Cultural Transitions
English IV: Voices from the Edge
English IV: Dramatic Literature
English IV: Written Expression
MATHEMATICS
Advanced Algebra & Trig 200 & 300
Advanced Algebra & Trig 400 H
Algebra 300
AP Calculus AB & BC
AP Statistics
College Algebra 300
Discrete Mathematics with Statistics
Geometry 200 & 300
Geometry 400 H WT
Math 1
Math 2/Math 2H
Math 3/Math 3H*
Pre-Calculus 300
Pre-Calculus 400 H WT
SOCIAL SCIENCE
American Economy
ESL US History
American Government
Essentials of Geography
Ancient Medieval History
Multicultural Studies in American Society *
Anthropology
Global Connections 300
AP European History
Issues/World Cultural Geography
AP Microeconomics(DGS)/AP Macroeconomics(DGN)
Law in American Society
AP Psychology
Modern World History
AP US Government and Politics
Psychology
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AP US History
Bilingual Global Connections
Contemporary American Issues
ESL Global Connections
Sociology
Sociology of Gender
U.S. Foreign Policy
U.S. History
NATURAL/PHYSICAL SCIENCE
Anatomy & Physiology
AP Biology
AP Chemistry
AP Environmental Science
AP Physics C: Mechanics
AP Physics C: Mechanics, Electricity & Magnetism
Bilingual Biology
Biology 300
Biology II: Research Question in Biology
Biology 400 H WT
Chemistry 300 & 400
Earth Science 300
Electricity/Electronics
Physical Science 300
Physics 300
Physics 400 H WT
Research Topics in Earth Science
ADDITIONAL COURSES
AP Music Theory
AP French
AP German
AP Spanish
French 1, 2, 3
French 3 H WT
French 4
French 5 WT
German 1, 2, 3
German 3 H WT
German 4
German 5 WT
Spanish 1, 2, 3
Spanish 3 H WT
Spanish 4
Spanish 5 WT
*pending D99 and NCAA approval
OCCUPATIONAL AND CAREER PLANNING
The District 99 graduation requirements and elective program are designed to prepare students for life after
graduation whether the student is college bound or ready for the world of work. The student who plans to enter the
job market upon graduation should keep in mind what employers look for in the educational programs of potential
job applicants and choose their courses accordingly. Many employers who wish to hire high school graduates are
seeking the following skills and qualities in their employees:
• English and mathematical skills
• Technical skills
• Solid or improved grades
• Good attendance record
• Unquestionable integrity
• Leadership skills
• Positive attitude toward work
• Neat appearance
During the freshman and sophomore years, enrollment in introductory courses in Career and Technical Education
can be useful in exploration of potential careers. Junior and Senior students should investigate the opportunities
available for career development at the Technology Center of DuPage (TCD) or in the Cooperative Education
program, which includes Cooperative Work Training, Marketing Education, and FCS Cooperative Education.
Students interested in a career in teaching should also consider the experience offered through the Introduction to
Teaching course.
Career planning is necessary for both college bound students and those planning to enter the work world
immediately after high school. Career information is available in the College & Career Centers. These Centers have
several computerized information programs available to students. Students are encouraged to seek the help of their
school counselor in making post-secondary decisions.
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ADVANCED PLACEMENT INFORMATION
The content in the following courses may prepare students to obtain advanced placement credit based upon
successful completion of advanced placement tests:
AP Art History
AP Biology
AP Calculus AB
AP Calculus BC
AP Chemistry
AP Computer Science A
AP English Language & Composition
AP English Literature & Composition
AP Environmental Science
AP European History
AP French
AP German
AP Microeconomics
AP Music Theory
AP Physics C: Mechanics
AP Physics C: Mechanics,
Electricity & Magnetism
AP Psychology
AP Spanish
AP Statistics
AP Studio Art:
AP Studio Art:
AP Studio Art:
AP Studio Art:
AP Studio Art:
AP Studio Art:
Drawing & Painting
2D Design (Design)
2D Design (Digital Photography)
2D Design (Computer Design)
3D Design (Ceramics)
3D Design (Jewelry &
Metalwork)
AP U.S. Government & Politics
AP U.S. History
ATHLETIC AND STUDENT ACTIVITY ELIGIBILITY
All students are required to maintain a full load of six credit courses (3 credits each semester). Students who
participate in athletics and student activities are subject to academic eligibility requirements that are defined by the
Illinois High School Association and Community High School District 99 policies. Eligibility is determined on both
a weekly and semester basis. In order to be eligible for participation during a given week, a student must be passing
at least five semester credit courses (2.5 credits.) At the end of the semester, in order to maintain eligibility for the
following semester, a student must have passed at least five semester credit courses (2.5 credits) for the entire
semester.
AUDIT OF A CLASS
Occasionally, a student may find it beneficial to audit a class. Teacher approval is required before a student may
enroll in a course on audit status. Any student auditing a class is expected to complete all course assignments,
participate in class discussions, and complete all work as assigned by the teacher. An audit carries no credit or honor
points. Students interested in auditing a class should consult with the teacher and school counselor. Courses that are
audited do not count toward the five class minimum required under the Athletic/Activity Eligibility Guidelines.
Audit forms must be submitted within the first three weeks of the semester.
CHANGING COURSE REQUESTS
The decision to take a course is an important one. Course additions and/or deletions from the initial registration will
be based on the criteria listed below. Questions pertaining to schedules need to be addressed with the school
counselor.
•
Scheduling errors – i.e. two classes during the same period, no lunch scheduled, no PE scheduled,
registered to take a class previously completed
•
Failure or near failure in a prerequisite course
•
Unusual family circumstances
•
Successful completion of a summer school course
•
Post high school admission requirements
Course changes are generally not allowed and very rare. If a request is made, it is essential for questions pertaining
to schedules be addressed prior to the end of the school year.
COURSE LOAD
State law requires all students to be enrolled and in attendance not less than 300 minutes a day. District 99 requires
students to be enrolled in three (3.0) course credits per semester (six credit classes) as a minimum. Lunch does
not count toward the 300 minute minimum requirement.
To assure all students meet this requirement, students will normally earn six (6) credits per year. Students may
request a maximum of seven (7) classes per semester in order to enrich their academic program. This programming
allows students to more easily take electives.
Students involved in athletic or co-curricular activities should be aware of the athletic and activity eligibility as
described in this guide.
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CRITERIA FOR COURSES TO BE TAUGHT
District 99 has an extensive curriculum with many courses offered to meet the different ability and interest levels of
the students. It should be noted, however, merely because a course is offered does not mean it will be taught.
Courses will be taught only if there is sufficient student enrollment. This is also true of courses which are sequential
in a program. Thus, the third or fourth year of a program may not be taught unless there are a sufficient number of
students registered. In some instances, the total course enrollment from both North and South High Schools may be
considered, which may result in the course being taught at only one high school.
COURSE REPEATS
A student, with appropriate counseling from their school counselor, classroom teacher, parents, and department
chair may request to repeat a passed course in any area where mastery of skills at one level is needed in order to
successfully proceed in a sequence. The practice of repeating a course applies to a course where a student has earned
a passing grade.
A student repeating a course will receive the grade points from the course taken the second time even if it is lower
than the first grade earned. The course and grade for the first time the course was completed will remain on the
transcript. Credit is earned only once. Students repeating a course due to a course failure will retain the failing grade
on their transcript and the failing grade will remain as a part of their cumulative GPA.
Courses taken as repeated courses do not count toward the five class minimum required under the Athletic and
Activity Eligibility Guidelines.
DUAL CREDIT
Students who successfully complete the Introduction to Teaching Course, AP Computer Science A, Architectural
Drawing I, Architectural Drawing I Honors, Architectural Drawing 2 Honors and/or the Electricity/Electronics
Course will receive District 99 credit and College of DuPage college credit. At the completion of the course,
students must contact COD to request a transcript.
EARLY GRADUATION
Each student is encouraged to think carefully about both immediate and long-term goals when contemplating an
early graduation request. District 99 does not encourage early graduation. However, if a student perceives a need to
graduate early, both the student and parent must be involved in the process. The application for early graduation
is initiated with the counselor and should be completed prior to the beginning of the final semester of
enrollment.
GRADE LEVEL ASSIGNMENT
All students are assigned grade level status by the number of earned credits and the number of years of high school
experience, as stipulated in Board Policy 7.305. The reason for and benefits of this policy change are as follows:
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


Lack of progress toward a diploma sounds an alarm to students, parents, and school staff about the need for
intervention. Earlier intervention assists students in remaining on track for graduation.
Credits serve as a tangible benchmark for students and parents as progress toward earning a diploma. A
policy that emphasizes earning credits encourages students to achieve rather than accrue seat time.
Regular progress toward a diploma, not seat time, will entitle a student to rights and privileges.
Students will take high stakes standardized assessments only after earning at least ten credits of high school
work and thus will be better prepared to achieve state standards. For a student to be classified as a senior in
their 4th year of high school, students must have taken the Prairie State Achievement Exam during their 3 rd
year of high school.
Based on the 22 credit graduation requirement and the policy requirements, the following chart reflects the criteria
for grade level assignment:
Grade
Level
Senior
Junior
Sophomore
Freshman
Years of High
School Attendance
3
2
1
<1
Credits Earned Prior to
Start of the School Year
15
10
5
<5
Grade level determination will occur after each summer school session to allow for students deficient in credit to
access summer school opportunities in order to meet the minimum number of credits required to move to the next
grade level.
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INDEPENDENT STUDY
Independent Study is an alternative program intended to meet the needs of those students who have demonstrated a
high degree of responsibility and who possess the aptitude to pursue coursework with minimal teacher contact.
Students study under the supervision of a teacher and complete credit requirements without attending regular class
sessions. Independent Study provides opportunities for academic enrichment beyond what is offered in the published
curriculum or accessibility to coursework which cannot be scheduled. A student may take only one Independent
Study course during a semester. Any student interested in Independent Study should consult with the subject matter
teacher and counselor. Teacher approval is required to participate in this program. Lab fees may be charged as
applicable. Independent study forms must be submitted within the first three weeks of the semester.
PASS-FAIL
Rather than receiving a traditional grade, students may choose the pass-fail grade option in Keyboarding/Formatting
and all music courses. The following conditions will apply to a student seeking pass-fail grading:
1. A student must declare in writing, accompanying parent’s signature, his/her desire to be graded on a passfail basis by no later than Monday of the fourth week of each semester, except in Keyboarding/Formatting,
in which case the deadline is at the end of the sixth week. The deadline for students enrolled in
Keyboarding/Formatting opposite lunch is the end of the first quarter. Otherwise, traditional grading
procedures will be utilized.
2. The pass-fail grade will be recorded on the student’s report card at the first quarter and the semester as well
as on the permanent record.
3. Pass-fail option courses may be counted as credit for graduation but will not count in calculating GPA and
class rank.
4. A student who elects the pass-fail option is expected to meet the same course requirements and will be
evaluated by the same procedures as are other students.
PHYSICAL EXAMINATION/IMMUNIZATION REQUIREMENTS
9TH GRADE/FRESHMAN REQUIREMENTS:
The School Code of Illinois requires that each student entering 9 th grade have a physical examination, on the Illinois
Certificate of Child Health Examination Form, completed by a licensed physician, an advanced practice nurse or
physician’s assistant. A physical examination must include: height, weight, blood pressure, BMI, diabetic screening,
signatures and dates in order to be considered in compliance. The Health History section must be completed, signed
and dated by the parent/guardian of the child.
Student records must show proof of immunization series according to the guidelines of the Illinois Department of
Public Health; Diphtheria, Pertussis, Tetanus, Polio, Measles (Rubeola), Mumps, Rubella, Hepatitis B, Varicella and
Tdap. The State of IL will be revising the immunization requirements for the 2015/2016 school year. Updated
information will be available on each school’s website or contact Health Services.
The physical examination must be submitted to the Health Services Office by August 3, 2015.
Students will not be eligible to receive a registration packet on Fee Payment Day unless all required
medical information has been submitted.
Freshman students will be excluded on the first day of school, and every day thereafter, until
complete immunization records, physical examination and parent/guardian health history have been
received and approved by Health Services.
Please retain a copy of the ninth grade physical with immunization dates for your records.
10th – 12th GRADE TRANSFER STUDENTS:
Students transferring from an Illinois school must present a copy of their ninth grade school physical examination
and a complete immunization record at the time of registration.
Students transferring from another state or country MUST present current immunization records and physical
examination at the time of registration.
Students transferring to an Illinois public school for the first time are required to have a vision examination
conducted by a physician or licensed optometrist.
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ATHLETIC PARTICIPATION:
If your child will be participating in any of the Athletics programs, the physical examination must be completed
AFTER JUNE 15th to ensure participation for the full school year. For Freshmen only, the 9th grade physical on the
State of Illinois form is valid for twelve months toward athletic participation. The IHSA sports physical form is not
acceptable for 9th grade entrance. Only a physical examination completed on the State of Illinois Certificate of Child
Health Examination form is acceptable for 9th grade entrance.
HEALTH CONCERNS:
If your child has specific health concerns, please note these concerns on the Illinois Certificate of Child Health
Examination form. Contact the school nurse at the beginning of the school year to coordinate care and plan for
potential emergency response. Please remember to update emergency contact information as needed throughout the
school year.
MEDICATION POLICY:
Community High School District 99 acknowledges that the responsibility for administering medication to a student
rests primarily with the student’s parent or guardian. Medication will be administered by district personnel during
the school day only when absolutely necessary for the health and well-being of the student. The initial dose of the
medication must be given at home.
If medication is necessary, it must be brought to the school in the original container labeled by the pharmacist (or
manufacturer of over the counter medications). All medications, including over the counter medications, must be
accompanied by the district’s medication authorization form completed and signed by both the parent and the
physician; each medication must be on a separate form. Medication authorization forms are available in Health
Services or on the school web page at www.csd99.org It is important to note that students are prohibited from
carrying medications or keeping medications in their lockers. Only students authorized to self-administer asthma
medication or rescue epinephrine are permitted to carry medications on their person.
Questions or concerns regarding the above policies may be directed to the Health Services offices of North High
School (630-795-8480) or South High School (630-795-8528).
PROFICIENCY CREDIT
7th and 8th grade students attending a District 99 sender school may be eligible for high school credit in a world
language course, Math I, or Math 2 course taken during 7th and/or 8th grade. Criteria to be considered for such credit
is as follows:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Be a member of the high school graduation class of 2016 or later.
Complete the entire junior high or middle school course which includes that course content identified by
District 99 as core or essential
Complete and earn a grade of “C” or better on each District 99 semester exam for the corresponding high
school course
Earn a grade of “C” or better in each of the two semester of study
Ensure that official junior high or middle school records of course completion final exam grades, and
course grades are transferred to the high school the student will attend as a freshman
REGISTRATION FEES & REFUNDS
Community High School District 99 assesses a registration and textbook rental fee for all students enrolling at
district high schools. Certain courses have an additional laboratory fee assessed to all students who enroll. Some
courses also require students to purchase workbooks, additional supplies, or special equipment.
Current refund guidelines are listed below. However, exact fees and procedures are subject to change.
1. No refunds are granted for withdrawing from a specific course. However, a second semester lab course fee will
be refunded only if the course is dropped first semester.
2. A student who transfers to another school before October 1 of the school year will receive a partial refund of
registration fees plus a refund of any second semester laboratory fees.
3. A student who transfers to another school after October 1 and prior to second semester will receive a prorated
refund of registration fees plus a refund of any second semester laboratory fees.
4. A student who transfers to another school after the start of the second semester will receive no refund.
5. Any student who withdraws from school for reasons other than a transfer to another school will receive no refund.
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6. No refunds are given until all textbooks and equipment have been returned to the bookstore.
7. If a student adds a laboratory course with a fee, the appropriate fee per semester will be collected.
NOTE: All fees stated represent the fee from the 2014-2015 school year. Fees are reviewed and determined by the
School Board in the spring for the 2015-2016 school year.
SCHOOL DAY
Students will be scheduled for classes or study halls all eight periods. Schedule changes will not be made to
accommodate early release or late arrival requests. Any students dropping a course in any period, including 8th
period will be placed in a study hall.
Only 3 groups of students will be granted an early release:
1. Students having an 8th period Varsity Athletic release approved by the Head Coach and Athletic Director.
2. Students involved in the Cooperative Work Training Courses.
3. Senior students that have been randomly assigned an 8th pr. study hall will be given early release.
SCHOOL RECORDS
1. Student permanent records will be maintained for a period of sixty (60) years after the student has
transferred, graduated or permanently withdrawn from school.
2. Student temporary records (family background information, intelligence test scores, group or
individual, aptitude test scores, etc.) will be maintained for five (5) years from the year the student
graduates or permanently withdraws from school.
3. The records custodian is responsible for maintaining and updating all student records.
4. A parent may examine a student’s records by request in writing to the records custodian. The
records custodian shall conduct an informal conference with the parents within fifteen (15) school
days of the receipt of the written request.
Upon graduation or permanent withdrawal of a student from school, the records custodian shall be responsible for
notifying the parents and/or student of the destruction schedule for permanent and temporary records and of their
right to request a copy of such records prior to their destruction.
Upon graduation or permanent withdrawal of a handicapped student (as defined in Ill. Rev. Stat. 1975, Ch. 122,
Article 14, the Rules and Regulations to Govern the Administration and Operation of Special Education),
psychological evaluation, special education files and other information contained in the student temporary record
which may be of continued assistance to the student may, after five years, be transferred to the custody of the parent
or to the student if the student has succeeded to the rights of the parents. The school shall explain to the student and
the parent the future usefulness of these records.
SUMMER SCHOOL
District 99 will offer summer school at the close of the regular school year. Summer school provides students with
the opportunities to enrich and/or accelerate their regular program and to make up deficiencies in credits needed for
graduation. Summer school courses will be at North High School during the summer of 2015.
Typically, the courses offered during the summer school session include the following:
Adv. Alg. Trig 300
English/Communication I
Global Connections
Math 1
English/Communication II
Health 300
Biology 300
English/Communication III
Keyboarding/Formatting
Consumer Economics
English/Communication IV
Physical Education
Driver Education
Math II
U.S. History
Courses must meet a minimum enrollment to be offered. Further details regarding summer school will be available
in the Counseling Office in the spring.
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WEIGHTED GRADES
District 99 uses a weighted grade system for assigning point values to grades earned in selected courses. The criteria
for a course to be weighted are 1) those courses in selected disciplines where section grouping is used to challenge
the students by accelerating the learning rate and increasing the amount of content in the discipline; and 2) those
courses in selected disciplines where course content is similar or equal to the content in university level courses.
Grades of A, B, and C are awarded an additional point in courses identified as having weighted grades. The grading
scales for courses with weighted grades are as follows:
A = five points, B = four points, C = three points, D = one point.
The following courses are designated as grade weighted:
Advanced Algebra/Trigonometry 400
AP Art History
AP Biology
AP Calculus AB
AP Calculus BC
AP Chemistry
AP Computer Science A
AP Drawing & Painting
AP English Language & Composition
AP English Literature & Composition
AP Environmental Science
AP European History
AP French
AP German
AP Microeconomics
AP Music Theory
AP Physics C: Mechanics
AP Physics C: Mechanics, Electricity and Magnetism
AP Psychology
AP Spanish
AP Statistics
AP Studio Art: 2D Design (Computer Design)
AP Studio Art: 2D Design (Design)
AP Studio Art: 2D Design (Digital Photography)
AP Studio Art: 3D Design (Ceramics)
AP Studio Art: 3D Design (Jewelry & Metalwork)
AP U. S. Government & Politics
AP U.S. History
Architectural Drawing 1 Honors
Architectural Drawing 2 Honors
Biology 400
Chemistry 400
English & Communication I, II
French III H
French V H
Geometry 400 Honors
German III H
German V H
Honors Accounting
Math II Honors
Math III Honors
Physics 400
Pre-Calculus 400
Spanish III H
Spanish V H
The following courses have a weighted grade option. If a student would like to take the following courses as
weighted they must indicate this to the teacher.
A Cappella Choir
Jazz Ensemble
Symphonic Orchestra
Treble Choir
Wind Ensemble
WITHDRAWING FROM A SCHEDULED CLASS
Students are expected to remain in the courses for which they have registered for the entire school year. The school
cautions all students to carefully consider any withdrawals. District 99 students are not considered full-time students
unless they are enrolled in a minimum of six credit classes. Drop requests will not be considered until 4 ½ weeks
into each semester, which allows adequate time for the student to access assistance, time for the teacher to fully
assess the student’s capabilities and to fully understand the requirements of a student’s entire schedule. A student
may not be allowed to drop a course, if, in doing so, he or she would fall below the 6 credit class minimum
requirement.
The withdrawal procedure involves input from the student, counselor, teacher, department chair, parent and
administrator. The withdrawal is not official until the withdrawal form has been processed and signed by all parties,
including the bookstore, and returned to the counselor.
TRANSCRIPT IMPLICATIONS FOR DROPPING A COURSE
1. If a student withdraws from a class at any time up to the end of the first six weeks, no grade is recorded on
the transcript.
2. If the student withdraws from a class between the 7th and 12th weeks of the semester, the student will
receive “W” along with the grade at the time of withdrawal, i.e., WA, WB, WC, WD, WF. This
withdrawal and grade will be recorded on the student’s transcript.
3. If the student drops a class from the 13th week through the end of the semester (not including exam days),
the student will receive a grade of “F.”
12
Credit: 2 elective units
INTRODUCTION TO TEACHING
Eligible Grade Level: 11, 12
Dual College Credit
Prerequisites: A 2.5 GPA, recommendation from counselor and one teacher.
Review of attendance record and application/interview.
Enrollment in semester two is contingent upon successful completion of semester one.
Student must provide own transportation.
This course provides an introduction to teaching as a profession in the American education system. The course
offers a variety of perspectives on education including historical, philosophical, social, legal, and ethical issues in a
diverse society. It includes organizational structure and school governance. This course also offers a realistic
teaching experience enabling highly motivated students to work under the supervision of certified staff at elementary
and middle schools. Arrangements may be available for high school students to experience teaching high school
special needs populations. Students will spend three days each week at the assigned school and two days per week in
the high school classroom. During first semester, students are expected to analyze career paths in education,
demonstrate professional practices in working with children, and participate in observations and create visual
displays. During the second semester, students will demonstrate the integration of curriculum and instruction to
meet children’s developmental needs and interests by working closely with mentor teachers in the creation and
implementation of teaching strategies and lessons. This class meets for two hours each day. Preference will be
given to seniors.
† This course may earn Dual Credit at College of DuPage. Please refer to Page 8 of this Registration Guide.
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CAREER & TECHNICAL EDUCATION
Career and Technical Education prepares students for college and the careers that follow the college experience.
College majors that students can be successful in after enrolling CTE classes include Architecture and
Construction, Business Management and Administration, Education and Training, Finance, Hospitality and
Tourism, Information Technology, Marketing, Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics. Literacy,
Common Core and Technology are incorporated into CTE classes and support the rigorous District 99
curriculum. Rich opportunities for work-based learning experience through the CWT (cooperative career
education) is attractive and beneficial to all students by providing opportunities for scholarships, awards and by
networking with those in the business community. Induction into the National Technical Honor Society is an
option for seniors who have completed three semesters of CTE course work (excluding Consumer Education),
earning a “B” or better in all three CTE semesters, have an overall GPA of 3.4 or higher and have exceptional
character, conduct and citizenship.
All courses listed in the curriculum areas below satisfy the Career and Technical Education graduation
requirement.
BUSINESS EDUCATION: The knowledge gained in these courses will develop lifelong learning skills that
foster flexible career paths and confidence in adapting to a workplace that demands constant change. Business
competencies are essential because all students will: participate in the economic system as a consumer or as an
employee, encounter a business environment that is characterized by global diversity, be a part of a team
requiring leadership and interpersonal skills, and use technology as a tool for productivity.
COMPUTER TECHNOLOGY: Students will use various technologies throughout their high school career
and beyond. Computer software, hardware, video, sound, animation and the other 21st century emerging
technologies are changing the way we learn. Students taking computer courses in the Career & Technical
Education Department will learn essential computer skills that will enable them to be equipped with the skills
and knowledge that are required of all college students and employees in today’s Digital Age.
COOPERATIVE CAREER EDUCATION: Students participating in this program will enroll in a class and
work at an instructor-approved job training site. This combination provides students with the opportunity to
transfer classroom knowledge to the work world. Students will learn valuable career skills that will benefit both
those college-bound and work-bound after graduation. .
FAMILY AND CONSUMER SCIENCE: Family and Consumer Science courses provide experiences which
advance personal, educational and career goals. Students will learn about: balancing personal and work lives,
optimal nutrition and wellness, employment, career development, consumer issues, issues facing diverse
communities and work environments. Instruction is often individualized and many lab-based, hands-on classes
are offered.
INDUSTRIAL TECHNOLOGY: Industrial Technology courses enable students to develop the knowledge
and skills necessary to function in this rapidly changing technological world. Students enrolled in these courses
will apply mathematics, science, mechanical and technical knowledge and principles to seek solutions and solve
problems. Emphasis is placed on technical problem solving and developing an understanding of technical
resources and processes.
14
CONSUMER EDUCATION
Consumer Education is required for graduation.
BUSINESS EDUCATION
Fashion Merchandising
Introduction to Business
Sports and Entertainment Marketing
Accounting
Honors Accounting
Business Law
Entrepreneurship
COMPUTER TECHNOLOGY
Computer Programming
Computer
Digital Tools and Communication
Computer Science 1
Web Design
Computer Science 2
Keyboarding Lunch
AP Computer Science A †
Multimedia
3-D Design and Animation
COOPERATIVE CAREER EDUCATION
CWT – Cooperative Work Training
FAMILY AND CONSUMER SCIENCE
Culinary Arts
Fashion
Introduction to Culinary *
Fashion Construction 1
Baking & Pastries *
Fashion Construction 2
Advanced Culinary Arts *
Fashion Construction 3
Education & Training
Early Childhood Care *
Interior Design
Child Development
Interior Design
Introduction to Teaching †
INDUSTRIAL TECHNOLOGY
Architecture
Engineering & Electronics
Architectural Drawing 1 †
Electricity/Electronics †
Intro to Engineering Design (PLTW)
Architectural Drawing 1 Honors †
Architectural Drawing 2
Pre-Engineering (semester long)
Principles of Engineering (PLTW)
Architectural Drawing 2 Honors †
Computer-Aided Drafting & Design 1
Computer-Aided Drafting & Design 2
Technical Drawing
† Offered for Dual Credit
* Pending Board Approval
15
Credit: 1/2 unit
CONSUMER EDUCATION
Eligible Grade Level: 10, 11, 12
Prerequisites: None
This course introduces students to such topics as establishing credit and using it wisely, investing, buying or leasing
an automobile, establishing and maintaining savings and checking accounts, choosing an apartment, filing federal
and state income tax forms, smart shopping techniques, and shopping for food and clothing. The class provides
hands-on experience through class projects and is supplemented with guest speakers from the community.
Consumer Education is designed to prepare students for living on their own once they leave high school. Consumer
Education will provide the skills necessary to allow students to make financial decisions intelligently.
BUSINESS
EDUCATION
Credit: 1 Unit
ACCOUNTING
Eligible Grade Level: 10, 11, 12
Prerequisites: None
This course is designed for students who plan on majoring in accounting, business, marketing or management in
college. The course will be a valuable resource for further building accounting and finance skills. Students who
wish to prepare themselves to do accounting, either as an entrepreneur or as a business person, will find this course
develops a solid foundation for financial preparation.
Credit: 1/2 unit
BUSINESS LAW
Eligible Grade Level: 11, 12
Prerequisites: None
Laws concerning the economic life of every individual are the subject matter of Business Law. In addition to
contracts, torts, landlord-tenant relations, attention is also given to criminal law and juvenile law. Actual cases are
used to illustrate rules of law. Current changes in laws and how the law is applied to current cases is discussed and
investigated. A mock trial may be presented as a way of introducing students to courtroom practices and
procedures. Videotaped cases are also presented in the class and the students are asked to determine probable
outcomes based on their knowledge of the law.
Credit: 1/2 unit
ENTREPRENEURSHIP
Eligible Grade Level: 10, 11, 12
Prerequisites: None
If working for someone else does not interest you and being your own boss is your goal; this course will introduce
you to the entrepreneurial skills necessary to run your own business. Areas covered include business ownership,
management theories, product development, and human relation skills. Students become aware of the challenges
facing business owners and managers in today’s rapidly changing business environment. Entrepreneurship students
will get an opportunity to simulate the operation of a small business by creating, marketing, and selling a product
while working as a part of a management team.
Credit: 1/2 unit
FASHION MERCHANDISING
Eligible Grade Level: 9, 10, 11, 12
Prerequisites: None
This course will help students develop a thorough understanding of the fashion design and merchandising industry.
Students will be able to apply concepts such as trend analysis, fashion theories, apparel manufacturing, marketing,
and garment design analysis. Areas of student learning will include clothing and society, the fashion world, color
and design, clothing selection and the workplace, and career opportunities in fashion related fields. Students taking
Fashion Merchandising will have the opportunity to participate in DECA (Student Marketing Leadership
Organization) as well as FCCLA (Family, Career & Community Leaders of America).
16
Credit: 1 unit
HONORS ACCOUNTING
Eligible Grade Level: 11, 12
Grade Weighted
Prerequisites: None
Honors Accounting uses an integrated approach to teach accounting. Students first learn how businesses plan for
and evaluate their operating, financing and investing decisions and then how accounting systems gather and provide
data to internal and external decision makers. This rigorous year-long course addresses all the learning objectives of
a college level financial accounting course, in addition to those from a managerial accounting course. Topics
include an introduction to accounting, accounting information systems, time value of money, and accounting for
merchandising firms, sales and receivables, fixed assets, debt and equity. Other topics include statement of cash
flows, financial ratios, cost-volume profit analysis and variance analysis.
Credit: 1/2 unit
INTRODUCTION TO BUSINESS
Eligible Grade Level: 9, 10, 11, 12
Prerequisites: None
This course provides students an opportunity to participate in a student run business simulation. Students will
explore such topics as: entrepreneurship; free enterprise; business career opportunities; employee-employer
behavior and responsibilities. The class will be responsible for choosing a product to market and sell, while learning
various managerial tasks. Proceeds generated from the sales of the product will go to a charitable organization.
Credit: 1/2 unit
SPORTS AND ENTERTAINMENT MARKETING
Eligible Grade Level: 11, 12
Prerequisites: None
Students will learn about marketing principles and theories, and apply those principles and theories through the
study of the sports and the entertainment industries. Areas of student learning will include the functions of
marketing, target marketing, market segmentation, sponsorship, promotions, event marketing, marketing
management, endorsements, advertising, public relations, sports law, careers in sports and entertainment marketing
and the marketing plan. The marketing concepts learned in this class will be learned through the study and
investigation of the marketing techniques used in college and professional sports as well as in the movie and the
music industries.
COMPUTER
TECHNOLOGY
Credit: 1 unit
AP COMPUTER SCIENCE A
Eligible Grade Level: 10, 11, and 12
Grade Weighted
Prerequisites: Instructor approval, completion of Computer Science 2 with
Dual College Credit
at least a grade of C or successful completion of CAT300 or above.
This course will teach the methods and techniques of programming design, as well as an in-depth study of
algorithms, data structures, data abstractions and object-oriented programming using the language of Java.
Successful completion of this course will provide students with the opportunity to take the Advanced Placement
examination in Computer Science.
* Students who have completed AAT/Math 3 may fulfill the three year math requirement by taking AP
Computer Science.
† This course may earn Dual Credit at College of DuPage. Please refer to Page 8 of this Registration Guide.
Credit: 1/2 unit
COMPUTER SCIENCE 1 (Visual Basic Programming)
Eligible Grade Level: 9, 10, 11, 12
Prerequisites: Algebra 300 or equivalent, grade of C or better recommended
Students will learn the Visual BASIC language to write step-by-step instructions to create computer programs.
Students will also learn common design techniques and methods used to produce efficient and readable programs
for various applications.
17
Credit: 1/2 unit
COMPUTER SCIENCE 2 (Visual Basic Game Programming)
Eligible Grade Level: 9, 10, 11, 12
Prerequisites: A grade of C in Computer Science 1, or department approval
This course will continue to prepare students in computer languages. This course covers Advanced Visual Basic
topics including multi-form projects, additional form controls, graphics, and applications. Students will be
introduced to the techniques and design methods used in structured programming and advanced programming
techniques with an emphasis on data structures.
Credit: 1/2 unit
DIGITAL TOOLS AND COMMUNICATION
Eligible Grade Level: 9, 10, 11, 12
Prerequisites: None
What does it mean to be technologically savvy? What tools are in your digital backpack? How quickly and
efficiently can you select and use those tools in school and at home? The goal of this course is to give students the
means to assess their technical capacity and the ability to increase their use of technology through problem based
learning and critical thinking. Students will learn how to create authentic work through the use of social media
platforms, cloud computing, and web 2.0 tools. Students will learn how to strategically navigate a variety of
information sources and differentiate reliable content as defined by District 99 and Common Core Standards. Please
note that while keyboarding is an underlying skill addressed in this course, students who are deficient in this skill
should enroll in Keyboarding Lunch.
Credit: 1/2 unit
KEYBOARDING/FORMATTING OPPOSITE LUNCH
Eligible Grade Level: 9, 10, 11, 12
Prerequisites: None
Students will learn to use the keyboard by touch to develop their speed and accuracy on computers. Students will
be taught the basic word processing skills needed to prepare personal and business documents. Students are also
introduced to spreadsheets, presentation, and desktop publishing software. This course is highly recommended for
all students to build their computer skills for high school, college, and work. Students take this class during the
resource opposite their lunch period. In addition, students will be given the option of taking this course pass/fail.
Credit: 1/2 unit
WEB DESIGN
Eligible Grade Levels: 9, 10, 11, 12
Prerequisite: None
This class will focus on web page planning, basic design, layout, and construction. Students will incorporate
graphics and multimedia into the web sites they create using the Adobe Creative Suite (Dreamweaver, Flash, and
Photoshop). Students will also learn how to effectively evaluate existing web sites for content and function.
Credit: 1/2 unit
3-D DESIGN & ANIMATION
Eligible Grade Level: 9, 10, 11, 12
Prerequisites: None
This course introduces the student to the type of software and modeling techniques used by architects, designers,
game developers, and graphic designers working on games and movies. Students will create three dimensional
objects to produce rendered still frames (scenes) and use these objects to produce rendered animations. Units
include: three-dimensional modeling, rendering, animation, lighting and material, and scene composition.
COOPERATIVE
CAREER EDUCATION
Credit: 2 units
COOPERATIVE WORK TRAINING (CWT)
Eligible Grade Level: 11, 12
Prerequisites: None
Students will learn how to be successful in obtaining a job through the interview process and how to keep their job
once they are hired. Job skills and safety will be covered in the related class to help the student be a better prepared
employee. Also included will be units on ethics, positive work habits, career exploration, entrepreneurship, earning
a living, paying taxes, and managing money. Local businesses are used to provide on-the-job experience.
18
FAMILY AND CONSUMER
SCIENCE
Credit: 1/2 unit
ADVANCED CULINARY ARTS *
Eligible Grade Level: 9, 10, 11, 12
Prerequisites: Foods 1 (also known as Introduction to Culinary)
If you are passionate about food or want to work in this exciting career field, our hands-on culinary arts courses are
designed to equip you with superb culinary practices as well as strong thinking and communication capabilities.
This course builds upon the cooking methods taught in Introduction to Culinary Arts creating soups, salads, grain
and meat dishes from all over the globe. * Pending Board Approval
Credit: 1/2 unit
BAKING AND PASTRIES *
Eligible Grade Level: 9, 10, 11, 12
Prerequisites: Foods 1
Pastry is the name given to various kinds of baked products made from ingredients such as flour, sugar, milk, butter,
shortening, baking powder, and eggs. Sweet baked products such as pies and tarts will be the focus of this course
along with baked goods such as yeast breads and cakes. * Pending Board Approval
Credit: 1 unit
CHILD DEVELOPMENT
Eligible Grade Level: 10, 11, 12
Prerequisites: None
If you are interested in stepping out of the student mode into an active teaching mode, enroll in Child Development.
This course is designed to give high school students an opportunity to work with three and four-year old children in
a preschool. Any student interested in a career involving children (education, social work, psychology, pediatrics,
day-care) will benefit from this course. Early Childhood Care (Previously Parenting) is recommended prior to
taking this course.
Credit: 1/2 unit
EARLY CHILDHOOD CARE *
Eligible Grade Level: 9, 10, 11, 12
Prerequisites: None
Wonder what it is like to care for a small child? This course is designed to give high school students the
opportunity to work directly with infants and 2-year-old children. Students will study play and development, basic
needs, discipline and guidance. For students who are interested in continuing their study of young children, the
Child Development course is suggested. (Previously Parenting) * Pending Board Approval
Credit: 1/2 unit
FASHION CONSTRUCTION 1
Eligible Grade Level: 9, 10, 11, 12
Prerequisites: None
This course is for students with some experience in sewing and fashion as well as for those with no experience but
with an interest in clothing. Basic construction techniques prepare students to sew independently. Students choose
projects compatible with their sewing skills and fashion interests.
Credit: 1/2 unit
FASHION CONSTRUCTION 2
Eligible Grade Level: 9, 10, 11, 12
Prerequisites: Fashion Construction 1 or department approval
Sew with the latest fabrics and use new techniques to construct pants, dresses, blouses or jackets depending on
student skill and interest. Pattern alterations to suit individual needs are presented. Career opportunities in fashion
merchandising are studied.
19
Credit: 1/2 unit
FASHION CONSTRUCTION 3
Eligible Grade Level: 10, 11, 12
Prerequisites: Fashion Construction 1 and 2
This is an independent study course for students who want to continue to develop their fashion construction skills
and interests.
Credit: 1/2 unit
INTRODUCTION TO CULINARY *
Eligible Grade Level: 9, 10, 11, 12
Prerequisites: None
Are you prepared to be living on your own? It’s sooner than you think! The Introduction to Culinary course will
equip you with the know-how to prepare nutritious, tasty, economical foods. Do an omelet, beef enchiladas or
biscuits and gravy fill your desire for a quick meal? Would you like to know how to broil, bake, fry and poach?
Looking for a way to incorporate more fruits and vegetables in your diet? This course is for you. The numerous lab
experiences will develop your food preparation skills, as well as an introduction to careers in foods.
(Previously Foods 1) * Pending Board Approval
Credit: 1/2 unit
INTERIOR DESIGN
Eligible Grade Level: 9, 10, 11, 12
Prerequisites: None
Interior Design is a course for students who have an interest in applying the principles of design to architectural
environments. The impact of color, use of textiles, choice and arrangement of furnishings, and the addition of
accessories, background and lighting selection are explored through design projects. Up-to-date technology and
current trends in housing choices are examined for a variety of lifestyles to encourage students to discover the living
environment most suited to them.
INDUSTRIAL
TECHNOLOGY
Credit: 1 unit
ARCHITECTURAL DRAWING 1*
Eligible Grade Level: 10, 11, 12
Dual College Credit
Prerequisites: CADD 1 or Departmental Approval
The focus of Architectural Drawing 1 is residential drawing and design. Students develop a set of plans and a 3-D
model of a house, applying skills developed in previous courses. The development of architectural skills using
Computer Aided Design (CAD) software is emphasized as well as the development of knowledge pertaining to
residential architecture and historical Chicago architects. Students will have the opportunity to compete in local and
state architectural competitions through the Skills USA Organization.
† This course may earn Dual Credit at College of DuPage. Please refer to Page 8 of this Registration Guide.
Credit: 1 unit
Grade Weighted
Dual College Credit
ARCHITECTURAL DRAWING 1 HONORS *
Eligible Grade Level: 10, 11, 12
Prerequisites: CADD 1 with letter grade of "A" or Department Approval
Students enrolled in this course will complete all of the Architectural Drawing 1 projects in addition to developing
board drawing and modeling skills outside of the classroom. This pre-studio experience will provide the student,
pursuing an architectural or engineering college/career path, with skills that will be vital to their college studio
experience. The primary aim of Architectural Drawing 1 is a focus on residential drawing and design. Applying
skills developed in previous drawing courses, students will have the opportunity to develop preliminary drawings of
a residential home. Emphasis is on design and the development of architectural drafting skills. Students will have an
opportunity to use professional tools, equipment and materials like those of an architect or architectural draftsman,
while also experiencing the processes of 3D Modeling and rendering. The AutoCAD 2010 and Autodesk Revit
software is the primary tool used to obtain course objectives. Students will have the opportunity to compete in local
and state architectural competitions through the Skills USA organization.
† This course may earn Dual Credit at College of DuPage. Please refer to Page 8 of this Registration Guide.
20
Credit: 1 unit
ARCHITECTURAL DRAWING 2
Eligible Grade Level: 11, 12
Prerequisites: Architectural Drawing 1
Students in this course will be creating architectural models in a virtual 3D environment. Full colored renderings,
applying building materials, as well as computer generated walkthroughs of buildings are all covered in this course.
The AutoCAD Architecture and Autodesk Revit software is the primary tool used for virtual modeling. Students
will plot out 3D drawings using an industry standard plotter. Designing and assembling a portfolio of work for post
high school use is an important part of this class. Students will have the opportunity to compete in local and state
architectural competitions through the Skills USA organization.
Credit: 1 unit
ARCHITECTURAL DRAWING 2 HONORS
Eligible Grade Level: 11, 12
Grade Weighted
Prerequisites: Architectural Drawing 1 or Architectural Drawing 1 Honors with letter grade of
Dual College Credit
"B" or better or department approval
Students enrolled in this course will complete all of the Architectural Drawing 2 projects in addition to developing
board drawing and modeling skills outside of the classroom. This pre-studio experience will provide the student,
pursuing an architectural or engineering college/career path, with skills that will be vital to their college studio
experience. In this course, students will be creating architectural models in a virtual 3D environment. Full colored
renderings, applying building materials, as well as computer generated walkthroughs of buildings are all covered in
this course. The Autodesk Revit software is the primary tool used for virtual modeling. Students will plot out 3D
drawings using an industry standard plotter. Designing and assembling a portfolio of work for post high school use
is an important part of this class. Students will have the opportunity to compete in local and state architectural
competitions through the SkillsUSA organization.
† This course may earn Dual Credit at College of DuPage. Please refer to Page 8 of this Registration Guide.
Credit: 1/2 unit
COMPUTER-AIDED DRAFTING & DESIGN 1 (CADD 1)
Eligible Grade Level: 9, 10, 11, 12
Prerequisites: None
This course is an excellent choice for students wishing to explore the field of drafting, planning a career in
engineering, architecture, construction, interior design, or other related fields. CADD 1 projects include: lettering,
multi-view drawing, isometric drawings, geometric construction, CAD drawings, and learning the AutoCAD
software.
Credit: 1/2 unit
COMPUTER-AIDED DRAFTING & DESIGN 2 (CADD 2)
Eligible Grade Level: 9, 10, 11, 12
Prerequisite: CADD 1
CADD 2 introduces students to 3D solid modeling. Students learn real world rendering techniques, virtual lighting,
multi-access design, and photo plotting. Software includes AutoCAD and 3D Studio Max.
Credit: 1 unit
ELECTRICITY/ELECTRONICS
Eligible Grade Level: 10, 11, 12
Dual College Credit
Prerequisites: None
This course meets the District 99 graduation requirement for a physical science course.
NOTE: Students enrolling in this course at North High School will need to travel to South High School.
This course is geared towards all students, both college bound as well as those who will directly enter the world of
work, with an interest in Electricity and Electronics. The curriculum combines state-of-the art interactive,
multimedia instruction with hands-on experimentation. Students will use a variety of industrial-grade training
devices to gain a comprehensive, practical understanding of the following topics: Careers in Electricity and
Electronics, Direct and Alternating Current, Basic Wiring and Schematic Symbols, Semiconductor Devices and
Digital Logic Fundamentals.
† This course may earn Dual Credit at College of DuPage. Please refer to Page 8 of this Registration Guide.
21
Credit: 1 unit
INTRODUCTION TO ENGINEERING DESIGN (PLTW)
Eligible Grade Level: 9, 10, 11, 12
Prerequisites: None
This is the first course in the PLTW (Project Lead the Way) Pathway to Engineering curriculum. Introduction to
Engineering Design (IED) is a course for students interested in design and engineering. The major focus of the IED
course is to expose students to the design process, research and analysis, teamwork, communication methods, global
and human impacts, engineering standards, and technical documentation. IED gives students the opportunity to
develop skills and understanding of course concepts through activity, project, and problem-based (APPB) learning.
Used in combination with a teaming approach, APPB-learning challenges students to continually hone their
interpersonal skills, creative abilities and understanding of the design process. It also allows students to develop
strategies to enable and direct their own learning, which is the ultimate goal of education.
Credit: 1/2 unit
PRE-ENGINEERING
Eligible Grade Level: 9, 10, 11, 12
Prerequisites: None
This course introduces students to the Principles of Engineering and Engineering Design. Units include: research,
design, fabrication, documentation, and creating presentations using 21st century skills. Teambuilding, time
management, and appropriate uses of technology are other focuses within the coursework.
Credit: 1 unit
PRINCIPLES OF ENGINEERING (PLTW)
Eligible Grade Level: 10, 11, 12
Prerequisites: None
This is the second course in the PLTW (Project Lead the Way) Pathway to Engineering curriculum. Principles of
Engineering (POE) is a course for students interested in exploring the STEM career pathway of engineering for an
entire year. The major focus of the POE course is to expose students to major concepts like mechanisms, energy,
statics, materials and kinematics. POE gives students the opportunity to develop skills and understanding of course
concepts through activity-, project-, and problem-based (APPB) learning. Used in combination with a teaming
approach, APPB-learning challenges students to continually hone their interpersonal skills, creative abilities and
understanding of the design process. It also allows students to develop strategies to enable and direct their own
learning, which is the ultimate goal of education.
Credit: 1 unit
TECHNICAL DRAWING
Eligible Grade Level: 10, 11, 12
Prerequisites: CADD 1 or 3D Design & Animation
Technical Drawing is an advanced level drafting class that focuses on design and development fundamentals.
AutoCAD, Inventor, and 3D Studio Max is the primary software used in the curriculum. The students will be
designing a motorcycle, bicycle, and a prototype sports car during the 1 st semester. 3D modeling software is used to
design, develop, and test real-life working models. Potential engineering students will get first hand use and
experience with software used in major universities and businesses.
Credit: 1/2 unit
3-D DESIGN & ANIMATION
Eligible Grade Level: 9, 10, 11, 12
Prerequisites: None
This course introduces the student to the type of software and modeling techniques used by architects, designers,
game developers, and graphic designers working on games and movies. Students will create three dimensional
objects to produce rendered still frames (scenes) and use these objects to produce rendered animations. Units
include: three-dimensional modeling, rendering, animation, lighting and material, and scene composition.
22
ENGLISH AND COMMUNICATION
The major goals of the Department of English and Communication are to assist students in their development as
articulate, effective speakers, readers, and writers and to foster in them an appreciation of classic and contemporary
literature.
Four units of language arts credit are required to complete the language arts requirement. Additional credits may be
selected to meet college entrance requirements, career goals, or interests.
In grades nine through eleven, students may choose from a small group of courses which have been designed to
respond to a variety of students’ needs at each grade level. In addition, students in these grade levels also may
concurrently enroll in some electives: journalism, speech, drama, radio and television. In twelfth grade, students
must elect from a large group of courses, including an Expression course and a Literature course. Students may also
elect to take additional courses, some of which satisfy the language arts requirement, some of which offer general
credit.
Acting I
Acting III
English & Communication IV: Humanities & Critical
Expression
English & Communication IV: Journalistic Expression
& Media Literacy
English & Communication IV: Literary Expression
Advanced Journalistic Writing
English & Communication IV: Oral Expression
AP English Language and Composition
English & Communication IV: Realms of Possibility
AP English Literature and Composition
English & Communication I
English & Communication IV: Transformation &
Triumph
English & Communication IV: Voices from the Edge
English & Communication I Honors
English & Communication IV: Written Expression
English & Communication I: Interdisciplinary (North)
English & Communication I/Reading (READ 180)
English & Communication IV: Writing for Broadcast
Expression
Film Studies
English & Communication I: Integrated Studies (South)
Forensics
English & Communication II
Journalism Workshop: Yearbook
English & Communication II Honors
Oral Interpretation
English & Communication II: Integrated Studies (South)
Radio I
English & Communication II: Skills (South)
Radio II
English & Communication III
Radio III
English & Communication III: Skills (South)
Television I
English & Communication IV: Cultural Transitions
Television II
English & Communication IV: Dramatic Literature
Theatre Design & Craft
Acting II
English & Communication IV: Effective Expression
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English and Communication Course Sequencing
FRESHMAN ENGLISH COURSES
Students will take one of the following:
English and Communication I/Reading (Read 180)
English and Communication I: Integrated Studies (South)
English and Communications I: Interdisciplinary (North)
Concurrent Options:
Radio I
Radio II
Theatre Design and Craft
English & Communication I
English & Communication I Honors
Acting I
Acting II
Television I
SOPHOMORE ENGLISH COURSES
English and Communication II
English and Communication II Honors
Students will take one of the following:
English and Communication II Skills (South)
English and Communication II: Integrated Studies (South)
Concurrent Options
Acting I
Radio I
English and Communication IV:
Journalistic Expression & Media Literacy
Advanced Journalistic Writing (with teacher rec)
Journalism Workshop: Yearbook
Forensics
Oral Interpretation
Acting II
Acting III
Television I
Television II
Radio II
Radio III
Theatre Design and Craft
JUNIOR ENGLISH COURSES
AP English Language and Composition
English and Communication III
English and Communication IV:
Journalistic Expression and Media Literacy
Journalism Workshop: Yearbook
Advanced Journalistic Writing
Television I
Television II
Students will take one of the following:
English and Communication III Skills (South)
Concurrent Options
English and Communication IV:
Literary Expression
Oral Interpretation
Acting I
Acting II
Acting III
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Theatre Design and Craft
Radio I
Radio II
Radio III
Forensics
SENIOR ENGLISH COURSES
Twelfth grade students must select 1 literature and 1 expression course OR
one year-long course that combines literature and expression.
COMBINED COURSES
(year-long)
AP English Literature and
Composition
English and Communication
IV: Humanities and Critical
Expression
English and Communication
IV: Journalistic Expression
and Media Literacy
CRITICAL READING
Literature Courses
(one semester)
English and Communication
IV: Critical Lenses
English and Communication
IV: Cultural Transitions
WRITING INTENSIVE
Expression Courses
(one semester)
English and Communication
IV: Effective Expression
English and Communication
IV: Literary Expression
English and Communication
IV: Dramatic Literature
English and Communication
IV: Oral Expression
Forensics
English and Communication
IV: Realms of Possibility
English and Communication
IV: Written Expression
Journalism Workshop:
Yearbook
English and Communication
IV: Transformation &
Triumph
English and Communication
IV: Voices from the Edge
English and Communication
IV: Writing for Broadcast
Expression
Advanced Journalistic Writing
CONCURRENT Elective
OPTIONS:
Acting I-II-III
Film Studies
Oral Interpretation
Radio I-II-III
Television I-II
Theatre Design and Craft
ENGLISH HONORS PROGRAM
At each grade level, students demonstrating excellence in a wide range of English skills, including critical reading
and writing, are encouraged to apply to the Honors Program.
ENGLISH AND COMMUNICATION I HONORS
Eligible Grade Level: 9
Credit: 1 unit
Prerequisites: Recommendation of eighth grade teacher, reading scores, writing sample, and English grades
ENGLISH AND COMMUNICATION II HONORS
Eligible Grade Level: 10
Credit: 1 unit
Prerequisites: English and Communication I Honors or recommendation of ninth grade teacher, reading scores,
writing sample, and English grades
AP ENGLISH LANGUAGE AND COMPOSITION
Eligible Grade Level: 11
Credit: 1 unit
Prerequisites: English and Communication II Honors or recommendation of English/Communication teacher,
reading scores, writing sample, and English grades
AP ENGLISH LITERATURE AND COMPOSITION
Eligible Grade Level: 12
Credit: 1 unit
Prerequisites: AP English Language and Composition or recommendation of English/Communication teacher,
reading scores, writing sample, and English grades
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Credit: 1/2 unit
ACTING I
Eligible Grade Level: 9, 10, 11, 12
Elective Credit
Prerequisite: None
THIS COURSE MEETS THE FINE ARTS REQUIREMENT.
Students in this course will learn basic introductory acting principles and techniques through the development and
performance of pantomimes, improvisations, monologues and duet scenes. Through preparation of scripted
performances, they will enjoy opportunities to analyze scenes and characters. In rehearsals, they will experience the
excitement of coaching and working with other students. Additionally, they will develop their powers of
observation and build self-confidence.
Credit: 1/2 unit
ACTING II
Eligible Grade Level: 9, 10, 11, 12
Elective Credit
Prerequisite: Acting I
THIS COURSE MEETS THE FINE ARTS REQUIREMENT.
In this course, which follows Acting I in sequence, students will continue to develop their acting skills and
techniques. Working with plays which are more analytically challenging and technically demanding, they will
select, cut, and adapt scripts for monologue and duet performances. Through improvisation, theatre exercises, and
other rehearsal techniques, they will develop the capacities to add depth to their performances. Additionally,
through the study of dramatic literature from different genres, they will discover a variety of acting styles. Acting II
is an advanced performance course for the successful and enthusiastic student of Acting I.
Credit: 1/2 unit
ACTING III
Eligible Grade Level: 10, 11, 12
Elective Credit
Prerequisite: Acting I, II
THIS COURSE MEETS THE FINE ARTS REQUIREMENT.
In this course, which follows Acting II in sequence, students will interpret and perform highly interesting and
complex scripts. In addition to the development of advanced acting skills, they will also enjoy the opportunity to
direct class productions. Additionally, they will develop an understanding of dramatic history and theory, which
will contribute to their development of literary analysis skills and directing techniques. They may, for example,
perform one scene in different styles, such as Greek, Shakespearean, or Commedia, and identify the unique features
of each style. They will also experiment with dialect in their performances. Acting III, then, is particularly
beneficial to serious students who plan to pursue acting at the college or community level.
Credit: 1 unit
ADVANCED JOURNALISTIC WRITING
Eligible Grade Level: 10, 11, 12
Elective Credit
Prerequisite: English and Communication IV: Journalistic Expression and Media Literacy or
teacher recommendation
This course must be taken concurrently with the required English sequence. Students may
repeat enrollment in this course.
In this course, students will continue to develop their writing skills by writing articles for the school newspaper.
Through a series of news stories, features, editorials, and columns, they will develop their understandings of
principles introduced in Journalistic Expressions and Media Literacy. They will also have ample opportunities to
confer with their peers and the teachers to strengthen their writing skills and to develop their understandings of the
writing process. Also, they will develop confidence in their oral communication skills through extensive interview
opportunities. Additionally, they will experience other aspects of newspaper production, including editing, desktop
design, page make-up, and use of graphics. In this respect, they may function in editorial positions, guiding public
opinion, training cub reporters, and providing departmental leadership.
Credit: 1 unit
AP ENGLISH LANGUAGE AND COMPOSITION
Eligible Grade Level: 11
Grade Weighted
Prerequisites: Teacher recommendation (If a student would like to move into the honors
English Credit
program from English II regular, s/he must apply before the end of the first semester of
sophomore year. Application procedures will be shared with students in December or early
January.)
This AP course in English Language and Composition engages students in becoming skilled readers of nonfiction,
fiction, and poetry written in a variety of periods, disciplines, and rhetorical contexts, and in becoming skilled
writers who compose for a variety of purposes. Through the writing and reading process, students will become
aware of the interactions among a writer’s purposes, audience expectations, and subjects as well as the way genre
conventions and the resources of language contribute to effectiveness in writing. This course prepares students for
the Advanced Placement English Language examination.
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Credit: 1 unit
AP ENGLISH LITERATURE & COMPOSITION
Grade Weighted
(fulfills both the literature and expression requirement)
Eligible Grade Level: 12
English Credit
Prerequisites: Teacher recommendation (If a student would like to move into the honors
program from English III regular, s/he must apply before the end of the first semester of
junior year. Application procedures will be shared with students in December or early
January.)
At the heart of this course is a concern for the development of literacy skills. Close reading of sophisticated texts
allows students to elevate reading and reasoning skills. Students’ lives are enriched when they read, write, and
speak about such texts, and their ability to articulate and defend their ideas about life experiences is enhanced. The
course requires that students devote the time necessary to read closely, converse thoughtfully, and compose and
revise essays on demanding literature. The selected texts and corresponding assignments allow students to achieve
these larger purposes while also preparing them to succeed on the Advanced Placement English Literature
examination.
Credit: 1 unit
ENGLISH AND COMMUNICATION I
Eligible Grade Level: 9
English Credit
Prerequisites: None
Students in this two-semester course will develop skills in reading, writing, speaking, listening, and research, with
reading instruction receiving special emphasis. Students will be introduced to writing as a process and will learn
various purposes such as clarifying/explaining ideas, writing to understand, arguing a claim, and reacting. The
curriculum is centered on the essential questions of “Developing Your Voice” and “Making Responsible
Decisions.” Additionally, students will participate in self-selected reading throughout the year.
Credit: 1 unit
ENGLISH AND COMMUNICATION I HONORS
Eligible Grade Level: 9
Grade Weighted
Prerequisites: Recommendation of eighth grade teacher, EXPLORE Scores, grades in English,
English Credit
and writing sample.
This two-semester course closely mirrors English and Communication I, but it challenges students with more
sophisticated texts and higher expectations for writing assignments and class discussions. A principal goal of this
course is to provide students with the foundation necessary to be successful on the Advanced Placement
examinations.
Credit: 1 unit
ENGLISH AND COMMMUNICATION I : INTEGRATED STUDIES (South)
Eligible Grade Level: 9
English Credit
Prerequisites: Teacher and Counselor Recommendation;
Concurrent Enrollment in Integrated Studies: Global Connections and Integrated Studies:
Biology
The freshman Integrated Studies program is an early-intervention program designed to assist students who have
been identified by teachers, counselors, and deans as having difficulty in adjusting to the demands of secondary
classroom-learning situations. While the curriculum and course objectives closely mirror the regular English and
Communication I course, students will be given additional support and will have an opportunity to pursue learning
objectives that are of interest to them. Students are required to enroll concurrently in the Integrated Studies Biology
and Global Connections sections. The overall goal of this early-intervention program is to prepare students to
transition back into mainstream classes.
Credit: 2 units
ENGLISH AND COMMMUNICATION I : GLOBAL CONNECTIONS:
English Credit
INTERDISCIPLINARY (North)
Eligible Grade Level: 9
Prerequisites: None
NOTE: This course meets the English I and Global Connections requirements for graduation
This course is designed to integrate the English and Communication I curriculum with the curriculum for Global
Studies. Students will explore the connections between literature and history as well as how those to relate to current
and past problems in the world. This is a two-period class that is taught by one English and one Social Studies
teacher at the same time.
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Credit: 2 units
ENGLISH AND COMMUNICATION I/READING (READ 180)
Eligible Grade Level: 9
1 English Credit
Prerequisite: Junior High Teachers’ recommendations and achievements scores
1 Elective Credit
(Requires concurrent registration in the reading section of READ 180)
Students enrolled in READ 180 will have a double-block of English and reading support and will use the READ
180 program. READ 180 is an intensive reading intervention program that is backed by scientific research. The
course includes whole group and small group instruction on reading and writing skills, time for guided independent
reading, and an individualized, adaptive instructional software program. In addition, students will learn the key
concepts and skills of the English and Communication I curriculum. Students will read several of the texts taught in
English and Communication I, but this class has a greater emphasis on reading nonfiction. Students will be placed
in this course based upon teacher recommendation and standardized test performance.
Credit: 1 unit
ENGLISH AND COMMUNICATION II
Eligible Grade Level: 10
English Credit
Prerequisites: English and Communication I
Students in this two-semester course will continue to develop skills in reading, writing, speaking, listening, and
research that were taught in English and Communication I. Essential ideas driving this course are “A Sense of Self
in Community” and “A Sense of Justice.” Students will write several multi-paragraph essays, with a special
emphasis on comparing texts. Students will continue their work with self-selected reading.
Credit: 1 unit
ENGLISH AND COMMUNICATION II HONORS
Eligible Grade Level: 10
Grade Weighted
Prerequisites: Teacher recommendation (If a student would like to move into the honors
English Credit
program from English I regular, s/he must apply before the end of the first semester of
freshman year. Application procedures will be shared with students in December or early
January.)
This two-semester course closely mirrors English and Communication II, but it challenges students with more
sophisticated texts and higher expectations for writing assignments and class discussions. A principal goal of this
course is to provide students with the foundation necessary to be successful on the Advanced Placement
examinations.
Credit: 1 unit
ENGLISH AND COMMMUNICATION II : INTEGRATED STUDIES(South)
Eligible Grade Level: 10
English Credit
Prerequisites: Teacher and Counselor Recommendation;
Concurrent Enrollment in Integrated Studies: U. S. History
This two-semester course continues the work started in Integrated Studies: English and Communication I. Students
will develop their skills as critical readers, competent writers, and effective speakers. Students also will develop
useful learning and study strategies, learn more about American society, and develop positive attitudes toward self
and society. Students are required to enroll concurrently in the Integrated Studies sections of U.S. History; teachers
modify the curriculum, adjusting instructional materials and teaching methods as needed. The overall goal of this
program is to prepare students to transition back into mainstream classes.
Credit: 1 unit
ENGLISH AND COMMUNICATION II SKILLS (South)
Eligible Grade Level: 10
English Credit
Prerequisite: Recommendation from teacher
Outcomes are similar to the regular English II course, but students receive more support at the skills level. On the
basis of freshman teachers’ recommendations, students are enrolled in the sophomore skills program for English II
and U.S. History. There is continued emphasis on study skills as well as activities to improve reading and writing
for each student throughout the year. Some spaces in this program are open to students who were not enrolled in
English and Communication I/READ 180 as freshmen.
Credit: 1 unit
ENGLISH AND COMMUNICATION III
Eligible Grade Level: 11
English Credit
Prerequisite: English and Communication II
This two-semester course will continue to promote literacy development in a wide range of areas. Students will
develop an understanding of literacy processes, with a special focus on persuasive writing and speaking. They will
demonstrate these skills through an extensive research project in which they explore a societal problem and
ultimately advocate for change. The curriculum centers on “An Evolving National Identity” and “The Challenges
of Change.”
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Credit: 1 unit
ENGLISH AND COMMUNICATION III SKILLS (South)
Eligible Grade Level: 11
English Credit
Prerequisite: Recommendation from teacher and Skills team
The English and Communication III Skills class is a continuation of the English and Communication II Skills
program. The students enrolled in this class were recommended by the Skills Team at the sophomore level. Class
work continues to emphasize basic skills and the practical application of skills for survival in junior college as well
as in the world of work. Specific attention in reading and frequent writing experiences will help the student gain a
better understanding of basic communication skills.
Credit: 1/2 unit
ENGLISH AND COMMUNICATION IV: CRITICAL LENSES
English Credit
(fulfills literature requirement)
Eligible Grade Level: 12
Prerequisite: English and Communication III
In this course, students will study how artists (authors, filmmakers, photographers, painters, etc.) comment on
society through different literary and visual media and other technologies. Students will learn to decode an artist’s
vision in the context of political, social, personal, economic, and cultural arenas. Students will explore not only the
thematic content of various texts but also how artists’ techniques and the tools available to them create meaning and
impact audience response. To become aware of their role as receivers, students will critically examine their own
responses in light of the artist’s “lens” (perspectives and techniques).
Credit: 1/2 unit
ENGLISH AND COMMUNICATION IV: CULTURAL TRANSITIONS
English Credit
(fulfills literature requirement)
Eligible Grade Level: 12
Prerequisite: English and Communication III
This course will introduce students to the effects that a changing world has on storytelling and the importance of
story within diverse cultures. Students will study literature and films that reflect various cultural perspectives that
have evolved. Students will consider works that reflect the beliefs, ideals, and questions that have been raised by
various cultural and ethnic groups. Students will explore texts and films that reflect multicultural viewpoints both
at home and abroad.
Credit: 1/2 unit
ENGLISH AND COMMUNICATION IV: DRAMATIC LITERATURE
English Credit
(fulfills literature requirement)
Eligible Grade Level: 12
Prerequisite: English and Communication III
This semester–long course will serve as an introduction to dramatic literature, studying the development of drama
and its various genres. This course will focus on cultural, literary, and political context of individual works by
diverse playwrights such as Anton Chekov, Arthur Miller, Tracy Letts, Susan Glaspell, and Augusto Boal. Students
will also be exposed to the elements of dramatic structure as well as analytical criticism. Students will utilize
dramaturgy (theatrical research) to enhance their analysis of the plays with such supplemental texts as playwright
biographies, historical background, dramatic criticism, and theatrical reviews.
Credit: 1/2 unit
ENGLISH AND COMMUNICATION IV: EFFECTIVE EXPRESSION
English Credit
(fulfills expression requirement)
Eligible Grade Level: 12
Prerequisite: English and Communication III
This writing course provides students opportunities to develop and strengthen their writing, speaking and listening
skills. In a workshop setting, students will practice proofreading, editing and revision of multiple drafts before they
publish final products. Students will read models that will deepen their understanding of the writer’s craft, and they
will experiment with technology in the production of alternative texts such as digital storytelling and/or Power Point
presentations. Instruction in grammar, mechanics and usage will be provided as needed.
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Credit: 1 unit
ENGLISH AND COMMUNICATION IV: HUMANITIES AND
English Credit
CRITICAL EXPRESSION
(fulfills both the literature and expression requirement)
Eligible Grade Level: 12
Prerequisite: English and Communication III
In this course, students will examine the human condition and how humans are inspired to create. Through the
study of literature, philosophy, and the visual and performing arts, students will investigate the human creative
response to the world, society, religious tradition, and the human experience. Students will examine how the artist
is influenced by and influences history and culture. The course will emphasize critical analysis of a variety of
literary, visual, and auditory texts, including myth, painting, sculpture, architecture, fiction, Greek and
Shakespearean drama, music drama, and film. Writing instruction will focus on developing critical responses to
this wide variety of media. Students will develop an understanding of their own writing processes, and students and
teachers will confer with one another at different points in the writing process. Through these interactions, students
will establish a set of skills, strategies, and practices for generating, revising, and editing diverse texts. The writing
assignments in the course are designed to promote critical inquiry, and in this course, the content of student writing
will emphasize aesthetic and philosophical responses to human experience.
Credit: 1 unit
ENGLISH AND COMMUNICATION IV: JOURNALISTIC EXPRESSION AND
English Credit
MEDIA LITERACY
(fulfills both the literature and expression requirement)
Eligible Grade Level: 10, 11, 12
Prerequisite: Teacher recommendation in grades 9 and 10
In this course, students will develop reading, writing and other communication skills through an exploration of
various media genres. Students will gain knowledge of the writing process, including research techniques,
structural analysis, and revision and editing and apply these concepts to their own writing. Students will study a
variety of texts, as both structural models and as a means to foster discussions about current issues in our mediadriven culture. The option of publishing in a student newspaper and/or yearbook is available.
Credit: 1/2 unit
ENGLISH AND COMMUNICATION IV: LITERARY EXPRESSION
English Credit
(fulfills expression requirement)
Eligible Grade Level: 11, 12
Prerequisite: English and Communication II with teacher recommendation or
English and Communication III
*Students may repeat enrollment in this course.
THIS COURSE ALSO MEETS THE FINE ARTS REQUIREMENT.
This course will offer students the opportunity to produce creative texts in a variety of genres—short fiction, poetry,
and creative non-fiction. Students will acquire knowledge of writing through multiple drafts, workshop, portfolio,
and performance. In essence, the course will allow students the opportunity to inhabit the shoes of a writer—to
trace the development of a creative piece from the spark of an idea to its publication or delivery to an audience. As
they work within specific creative genres, students will study both professional and student models.
Credit: 1/2 unit
ENGLISH AND COMMUNICATION IV: ORAL EXPRESSION
English Credit
(fulfills expression requirement)
Eligible Grade Level: 11, 12
Prerequisite: English and Communication II with teacher recommendation or
English and Communication III
In this communication course, students will explore their roles as speakers and writers in a world in which effective
oral and written communication is tantamount to success. In creating verbal messages for persuasive, informative,
and special occasion purposes, students will enhance their writing for, and presentation of, academic, professional,
and personal messages. They also will adapt their language and presentational style for a variety of audiences,
recognizing the similarities and differences between written and oral communication. By reviewing a range of
written and oral texts, students will understand how a speaker uses rhetorical methods, word choice, and nonverbal
elements to communicate effectively. Students will have the opportunity to participate in all aspects of
development and delivery of formal, informal, and personal presentations, debates, and discussions. This course
will also include analysis of messages generated by media, current events, literature, and/or personal interaction.
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Credit: 1/2 unit
ENGLISH AND COMMUNICATION IV: REALMS OF POSSIBILITY
English Credit
(fulfills literature requirement)
Eligible Grade Level: 12
Prerequisite: English and Communication III
In this course students will study how writers use fiction both to speculate and comment on the consequences of
human behaviors, technologies and social structures/regimes. The course will consider works of fiction including
genres such as myths, fantasy, science fiction and utopian or allegorical fiction. It will also include short nonfiction
such as scientific, technological and political essays. Students may examine how humans relate to the “other,” how
humans alter their world and/or experience, and how individuals function within imposed realities.
Credit: 1/2 unit
ENGLISH AND COMMUNICATION IV: TRANSFORMATION AND TRIUMPH
English Credit
(fulfills literature requirement)
Eligible Grade Level: 12
Prerequisite: English and Communication III
In this course, students will study highly accessible and contemporary genres (novels, dramas, essays, poetry, and
films) to understand the nature of transformation. Investigating and portraying different roles and perspectives,
students will identify, interpret and evaluate character evolution--how people adapt, survive and triumph over
challenges. Furthermore, students will explore how and why artists transform creative works from one medium to
another. Ultimately, this course will examine what it means to be human in a (sometimes) complex and impersonal
world.
Credit: 1/2 unit
ENGLISH AND COMMUNICATION IV: VOICES FROM THE EDGE
English Credit
(fulfills literature requirement)
Eligible Grade Level: 12
Prerequisite: English and Communication III
This course investigates those artists and writers who reject societal and structural norms and advocate for
alternative viewpoints and art forms. The course begins by examining the act of rebellion and the existing
conditions or motives that may contribute to a need for change. Through the study of literature, film, and art,
students will consider rebellion from the perspective of the rebel and the society in which he or she lives. Using a
set of essential questions, students will begin to discover how literature, film, and art can be utilized as vehicles for
the rebel or innovator to express alternative perspectives and ideas. Students will have an opportunity to think
critically about the effectiveness of the rebel in raising social consciousness and in contradicting established beliefs.
Credit: 1/2 unit
ENGLISH AND COMMUNICATION IV: WRITTEN EXPRESSION
English Credit
(fulfills expression requirement)
Eligible Grade Level: 12
Prerequisite: English and Communication III
In this course, students will develop an understanding of their own writing processes as well as the processes of
other students and professional writers. The classroom becomes a community of writers in which students engage
in the collaborative production and revision of texts. Students and teachers will confer with and consult one another
at different points in the writing process. Through these interactions, students will establish a set of skills,
strategies, and practices for generating, revising, and editing diverse texts. The writing assignments in the course
are designed to promote critical inquiry, an understanding of rhetorical situations, and the powerful uses of
information and language. Additionally, students will learn the conventions of different genres and utilize
technology for the production of various texts.
Credit: 1/2 unit
ENGLISH AND COMMUNICATION IV: WRITING FOR BROADCAST
English Credit
EXPRESSION
(fulfills expression requirement)
Eligible Grade Level: 12
Prerequisite: English and Communication III
In this intensive writing course, students will explore literary, expository and persuasive writing through the lens of
broadcasting. They will use radio and/or video technology to produce projects focusing on contemporary media
issues. The topic of media influence on society also will be explored. While this course will require the use of
audio and video editing software, no prior knowledge of either is required since the emphasis on the class is on
writing.
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Credit: 1/2 unit
FILM STUDIES
Eligible Grade Level: 12
Elective Credit
Prerequisite: English and Communication III
In this course, students will study film as a form of literature. They will study films from both thematic and genre
approaches, viewing approximately 10 films which have been selected on the basis of their value as art, as well as
their impact on the film audience. Students also will study the history, style and technique of making motion
pictures. While the emphasis in film studies is on viewing, listening and group discussion, students also will
develop their writing skills within a strong expository writing component in the curriculum. The major thrust of the
course is to provide students with the opportunity to become “cinema literate.” (Some materials studied in this
course may be mature in subject matter.)
Credit: 1/2 unit
FORENSICS
Eligible Grade Level: 10, 11, 12
Elective Credit
Prerequisite: English and Communication I
Course May Be Repeated.
Students in this course will participate in a variety of exciting communication events, through which they will
develop their thinking and speaking skills. Through activities in interpretation, such as prose reading and humorous
interpretation, students will respond creatively to literature, developing their analytical reading skills. Through
performance activities, such as duet acting and original comedy, students will develop their acting techniques,
crafting performances for live audiences. And through activities in public speaking, such as oratory and
extemporaneous speaking, students will develop their critical thinking skills, learning to reason logically and
manage information effectively. Students may elect to participate in interscholastic competition; however, cocurricular participation is not required.
Credit: 1 unit
JOURNALISM WORKSHOP: YEARBOOK
Eligible Grade Level: 10, 11, 12
Elective Credit
Prerequisite: English and Communication I
This course must be taken concurrently with the required English sequence.
Course May Be Repeated.
In this course, students are provided the opportunity to plan and produce the school yearbook. They will learn to use
a desktop publishing system to design both standard page layouts and those which use graphic enhancement. They
will also learn the basics of journalistic writing, such as the collection of information through interviewing,
organization and development of a good story, and a word processing system for submitting the material. Students
will receive training in photography skills, including the composition of the various types of pictures used in a
yearbook. An emphasis is placed upon meeting deadlines and adhering to production standards.
Credit: 1/2 unit
ORAL INTERPRETATION
Eligible Grade Level: 10, 11, 12
Elective Credit
Prerequisite: English and Communication I
This course must be taken concurrently with the required English sequence.
THIS COURSE MEETS THE FINE ARTS REQUIREMENT
This course introduces students to an exciting approach to literature based upon performance. Students select
material from prose, poetry, and drama, study it in depth, and present it orally. In crafting their performances,
students enter fully into their experiences with literature, which results in deeper understanding of their reading and
greater appreciation of it. In addition to developing an understanding of various literary forms, student also will
develop their higher-order thinking skills, in particular analysis, application, and evaluation. Additionally, they will
experience the excitement of working collaboratively to script and perform group interpretations.
Credit: 1/2 unit
RADIO I
Eligible Grade Level: 9, 10, 11, 12
Elective Credit
Prerequisite: None
In this course, students will use spoken language to communicate ideas and information. They will receive
introductory training in audio control and techniques of the broadcast studio. They also will study the history of
radio broadcasting, FCC regulations, basic equipment, announcing, programming, and program writing.
Additionally, students will enjoy some elementary hands-on experiences. Radio I prepares interested students for
continuation in the broadcasting course sequence.
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RADIO II (Semester 2 only)
Credit: 1/2 unit
Eligible Grade Level: 9, 10, 11, 12
Elective Credit
Prerequisite: Radio I
In this course, students who have successfully completed Radio I will have opportunities to learn “on-the-air”
broadcast writing, directing and production, thus developing both speaking and writing skills. Students will prepare
materials for radio broadcast on WDGC-FM., the school district radio facility. The production demands of this
course make it primarily a “hands-on” experience, with training on a more sophisticated level in on-microphone
performance and audio control.
Credit: 1/2 or 1 unit
RADIO III
Eligible Grade Level: 10, 11, 12
Elective Credit
Prerequisite: Radio II and teacher recommendation
This course is designed for the advanced communication student who has a definite interest in broadcasting as a
career. Students will participate in a work/study program involving on-air assignment on WDGC-FM for a
minimum of 60 hours plus assigned technical study and news reporting. This course is offered as an independent
study basis during the regular school year and needs teacher recommendation.
Credit: 1/2 unit
Elective Credit
TELEVISION I
Eligible Grade Level: 10, 11, 12
Prerequisite: None
This course offers students an introduction to both studio and film-style television production. Students will learn
basic studio production, including roles both in front of and behind the camera. Studio projects include an interview
and a variety show. Students will have the opportunity to work on live television shows for the district’s cable
channel as well as broadcast live sporting events and tape school functions with a multi-camera system. Film
projects include a silent movie, a commercial, and a music video. Students will take on all roles in film projects,
including acting, writing, shooting, directing, and editing. The emphasis is on understanding how film-style projects
combine multiple forms of communication (visual, written, oral, etc.) to craft an effective message. Within all
projects, students will work through the pre-production, production, and post-production process, learning to adapt
to different audiences and revise their projects to achieve broadcast-quality products. Students will also explore
sitcoms and how they have reflected society’s changing attitudes toward gender roles for both men and women
throughout television history.
This course will be taught at North High School during first period. Students must provide their own
transportation and have a study hall 2nd period to account for travel time.
Credit: 1/2 unit
TELEVISION II
Eligible Grade Level: 10, 11, 12
Elective Credit
Prerequisite: Television I
This course offers students advanced practice in both studio and film-style television production. The emphasis is
on more complex uses of all aspects of television communication. In the studio, students choose to focus on
working either in front of or behind the camera, crafting more complex live television shows that students develop
in a collaborative work environment. Film-style projects are more complex, as students complete more independent
projects that require subtle use of sound, imagery, editing, special effects, and other techniques meant to enhance a
message. Students will take part in live television shows on the district’s cable channel and help with broadcasting
live sporting events and school activities using multi-camera equipment.
This course will be taught at North High School during first period.
Credit: 1/2 unit
THEATRE DESIGN AND CRAFT
Eligible Grade Level: 9, 10, 11, 12 (Semester 2)
Elective Credit
Prerequisite: None
THIS COURSE MEETS THE FINE ARTS REQUIREMENT
In this course, students will study theories of technical theatre and apply these theories in actual practice. They will
study the history of technical theatre, set design and construction, lighting design and application, and costuming.
They may become part of various stage crews for school productions, but co-curricular participation is not required.
This course is intended for a wide range of students who seek to develop their understandings of the many facets of
theatre.
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LITERACY SUPPORT PROGRAMS
The English and Communication Department offers instructional options for students who need additional reading
and study strategies instruction as follows:
ENGLISH AND COMMUNICATION I/READING (READ 180)
Eligible Grade Level: 9
Prerequisite: Junior High Teachers’ recommendations and achievement scores (Requires
concurrent registration in the English section of READ 180)
See the course description for English and Communication I/Reading (READ 180)
Credit: 2 units
1 English Credit
1 Elective Credit
Credit: 1 unit
STRATEGIES FOR ACADEMIC SUCCESS I
Eligible Grade Level: 9, 10
Elective Credit
Prerequisite: Teacher and/or Department Chair Recommendation
This two-semester course is designed to improve reading as it relates to academic success in high school. The
course offers daily instruction and practice in effective reading and study skills as well as the opportunity to apply
those skills to content courses. Topics of study include vocabulary, responding to texts, test-taking strategies,
identifying text structures, understanding charts and graphs, finding main idea, making inferences, and applying
specific reading skills and strategies. Students will learn how to analyze learning task requirements, select
appropriate strategies to complete the task, and self-monitor their learning situations.
Credit: 1/2 unit
STRATEGIES FOR ACADEMIC SUCCESS I – RESOURCE (South)
Eligible Grade Level: 9, 10
Elective Credit
Prerequisite: Teacher and/or Department Chair Recommendation
This course has similar goals and activities as those in Strategies for Academic Success I; however, students in this
course will meet for only half a period opposite their lunch instead of for a full period. This course is intended for
students who are slightly behind in their content reading strategies and study strategies whereas the full period class
is intended for students who have demonstrated a greater need of support.
Credit: 1/2 unit
STRATEGIES FOR ACADEMIC SUCCESS RESOURCE I (North)
Eligible Grade Level: 9, 10
Elective Credit
Prerequisite: Teacher and/or Department Chair Recommendation
This one-semester course is designed to improve reading as it relates to success in high school. The course will
offer daily instruction and practice in literacy skills and provide students consistent practice at applying these skills
to core subjects. Topics of study include vocabulary, responding to texts, test-taking strategies, identifying text
structures, understanding charts and graphs, finding main idea, making inferences, and applying specific reading
skills and strategies
Credit: 1/2 unit
STRATEGIES FOR ACADEMIC SUCCESS II
Eligible Grade Level: 10
Elective Credit
Prerequisite: Teacher and/or Department Chair Recommendation
This one-semester course will focus on improving students’ ability to read and work with complex texts. Students
in this course will continue to master reading strategies that enable them to be successful in their content area
classes, on standardized tests, and in post high school literacy experiences. The course will offer daily instruction
and practice in effective reading and study skills as well as the opportunity to practice and apply these learned skills
to core subjects. Students need not take Strategies for Academic Success I in order to enroll in this course.
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Credit: 1/2 unit
STRATEGIES FOR ACADEMIC SUCCESS II – RESOURCE (South)
Eligible Grade Level: 10
Elective Credit
Prerequisite: Teacher and/or Department Chair Recommendation
This year-long course meets during a student’s resource period opposite lunch and focuses on improving students’
ability to read and work with complex texts. The components of this course include direct instruction of strategic
reading and learning strategies, vocabulary development, fluency improvement, and comprehension expansion
applied to all content areas. This course is designed for students who have demonstrated slight deficiency in skills
taught in English and Communication I and could benefit from more individualized instruction. One day a week is
set aside for students to apply the strategies they are learning to their homework.
Credit: 1/2 unit
STRATEGIES FOR ACADEMIC SUCCESS III
Eligible Grade Level: 11
Elective Credit
Prerequisite: Teacher and/or Department Chair Recommendation
This one-semester course will focus on improving students’ ability to read and work with complex texts. Students
in this course will continue to master reading strategies that enable them to be successful in their content area
classes and in post high school literacy experiences. Teachers will provide daily instruction and practice in
effective reading and study skills as well as the opportunity to practice and apply these learned skills to core
subjects. Many of the activities in the course center on reading nonfiction and forming an argument. In addition, a
special emphasis on preparation for standardized tests is included in this course. Students need not take Strategies
for Academic Success I or II in order to enroll in this course.
Credit: 1/2 unit
STRATEGIES FOR ACADEMIC SUCCESS III – RESOURCE (South)
Eligible Grade Level: 11
Elective Credit
Prerequisite: Teacher and/or Department Chair Recommendation
This year-long course meets during a student’s resource period opposite lunch and focuses on improving students’
ability to read and work with complex texts, develop an argument, and perform well on standardized tests. Direct
support of the Advocacy Project, a major assignment in English and Communication III, will be provided. In
addition, students will have a voice in deciding which skills they need to practice, and individualized instruction
will be provided to help students develop those skills.
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FINE ARTS
FINE ARTS COURSE OFFERINGS
Fine Arts Department course offerings encompass Music and Visual Art. Courses in these disciplines promote
individual aesthetic awareness and enable each learner to continue the search for their identity as a creative
individual. In addition to perpetuating a culture of creativity and innovation, Fine Arts course offerings provide a
unique and fertile framework to develop essential skills like problem solving, critical thinking, collaboration and
communication. Curricular experiences in sight and sound enable emotional awareness and development. Students
will forge unique pathways to success within a caring, collaborative, communicative learning environment. Music
and Visual Art course offerings fulfill the Fine Arts graduation requirement.
FINE ARTS HONORS PROGRAM
The Fine Arts Honors Program is offered as an opportunity to develop a study of increased rigor for students who
have advanced to a Capstone Fine Arts course and seek the most sophisticated training in their desired discipline.
Applications for the Fine Arts Honors Program are available in the Fine Arts Office and must be submitted with all
required signatures and approvals within ten (10) days of the start of the Semester. Students who are approved for
the Fine Arts Honors Program will receive weighted credit for coursework in their designated discipline.
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MUSIC
Music courses, both performance and non-performance, enable individual aesthetic awareness through experiences
in sound. Exploration of sound in both performance and non-performance courses provides learners with
experiences in composing, performing, and listening to music.
MUSIC COURSES AT-A-GLANCE
Music course offerings are sequenced progressively by performance organization and non-performance courses.
CHORAL
Freshman Boys Chorus (South only)
Freshman Girls Chorus
Concert Choir
Treble Choir
A Cappella Choir
A Cappella Choir Honors
CO-CURRICULAR CHOIRS
Freshman Girls Select (South only)
Overtones (South only)
A Cafellas (North only)
Treble Ensemble
Chamber Singers
Madrigal Singers
INSTRUMENTAL –STRINGS
Concert Orchestra
Symphonic Orchestra
Symphonic Orchestra Honors
INSTRUMENTAL - JAZZ
Jazz Lab Band
Jazz Ensemble
Jazz Ensemble Honors
INSTRUMENTAL – WINDS & PERC
NON-PERFORMANCE
Digital Music
Guitar I
Guitar II
Pop Music Styles
AP Music Theory
Concert Band
Symphonic Band
Wind Symphony (South only)
Wind Ensemble
Wind Ensemble Honors
VOLUNTEER ENSEMBLES
Marching Mustangs (South only)
Pep Band
Pit Orchestra
CHORAL
Credit: 1 unit
FRESHMAN BOYS CHOIR (South only)
Eligible Grade Level: 9
The Freshman Boys Choir is open to all incoming male freshman singers regardless of previous singing experience.
This class will focus on the development of basic singing skills, including tone development, part singing, proper
body positioning for singing, breath support and control, the establishment of a healthy choral tone, and music
reading. This group performs at least four times during the school year. Attendance at all events is expected.
Credit: 1 unit
FRESHMAN GIRLS CHOIR (South)
FRESHMAN CHOIR (North)
Eligible Grade Level: 9
The Freshman Choir is open to all incoming freshman singers regardless of previous singing experience. This class
will focus on the development of basic singing skills, including tone development, part singing, proper body
positioning for singing, breath support and control, the establishment of a healthy choral tone, and music reading.
This group performs at least four times during the school year. Attendance at all events is expected.
Credit: 1 unit
CONCERT CHOIR
Eligible Grade Level: 9 (males,) 10, 11, 12
Placement in Concert Choir is predicated on an audition with the choral faculty. Instructional emphasis is placed on
healthy vocal production, sight reading, tonal memory, singing alone and with others, and balance and blend within
a choral ensemble. Concert Choir performs the finest choral literature selected from a wide variety of musical
styles and historical periods. Members of this ensemble must attend four major choral events each year, in addition
to select festivals and community performances outside of the school day. Attendance at all events is expected.
Credit: 1 unit
TREBLE CHOIR
Eligible Grade Level: 11, 12
Placement in Treble Choir is predicated on an audition with the choral faculty. Instructional emphasis is placed on
healthy vocal production, sight reading, tonal memory, singing alone and with others, and balance and blend within
a choral ensemble. Treble Choir performs the finest choral literature selected from a wide variety of musical styles
and historical periods. Members of this ensemble must attend four major choral events each year, in addition to
select festivals and community performances outside of the school day. Attendance at all events is expected.
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Credit: 1 unit
A CAPPELLA CHOIR
Eligible Grade Level: 11, 12
Open to junior and senior boys and girls, the A Cappella Choir is the most advanced choral ensemble. Placement in
this ensemble is predicated on an audition with the choral faculty. Instructional emphasis is placed on vocal
production, sight reading, tonal memory, singing alone and with others, and balance and blend within a choral
ensemble. A Cappella Choir performs the finest choral literature selected from a wide variety of musical styles and
historical periods. Members of this ensemble participate in 3-4 concerts each year, in addition to select festivals and
community performances outside of the school day. Attendance at all events is expected.
At South only, A Cappella Choir also produces a Broadway musical annually from January to April as a class
project.
Credit: 1 unit
A CAPPELLA CHOIR HONORS
Eligible Grade Level: 11, 12
Grade Weighted
Prerequisites: Placement in A Cappella Choir by audition, and permission of instructor.
COURSE IS REPEATABLE
This course follows the same curriculum as A Cappella Choir with increased vigor, performance juries, and recital
participation. The course is offered for weighted credit, and students must be pre-approved by the course instructor
and Fine Arts Department Chairperson. See course instructor for pre-approval form.
CO-CURRICULAR (SELECT) CHORAL ENSEMBLES
Credit: None
In addition to the large choral ensembles, the choral program offers several select ensembles for students who seek
added performance opportunities beyond their curricular choral coursework. These groups are smaller than the
large ensembles (10-30 members) and sing music that is tailored to these smaller groups. Enrollment is determined
by audition. In addition to performing on the various choral concerts, ensembles are invited to sing at school,
district, and community activities. Additional information about these ensembles may be obtained through the Fine
Arts Department website or the music faculty.
Note: Students who wish to audition for any co-curricular select ensemble must initially enroll in the appropriate
resource period in order to avoid difficult schedule changes later. After auditions have been completed, students not
selected for ensemble participation will be reassigned to a regular lunch/resource.
INSTRUMENTAL – STRINGS
Credit: 1 unit
CONCERT ORCHESTRA
Eligible Grade Level: 9, 10, 11, 12
Concert Orchestra is open to all string instrument players who can meet a standard of preparation and are committed
to mature performance. This course is designed for the string player who has had several years of previous
instruction on their instrument, either through school or privately. In Concert Orchestra, students mature in their
understanding and appreciation of music and string technique, learn orchestral literature, and enjoy fine performance
experiences. The full-year course, that meets daily, offers activities including rehearsals, concerts, festivals, and
contest performances requiring an extra time commitment. Attendance at all events is expected.
Credit: 1 unit
SYMPHONIC ORCHESTRA
Eligible Grade Level: 9, 10, 11, 12
Symphonic Orchestra is the most advanced ensemble for string players. Placement in Symphonic Orchestra is by
audition. Students must demonstrate mastery of their instrument, including scales covering the full range of the
instrument and knowledge of musical notation, and a commitment to mature performance. Select wind and
percussion players enrolled in Wind Ensemble join Symphonic Orchestra for some concerts. Symphonic Orchestra
offers students the opportunity to refine their technique and musicianship while learning and performing a variety of
symphonic and string literature. The full-year course, that meets daily, offers activities including rehearsals,
concerts, festivals, and contest performances requiring an extra time commitment. Attendance at all events is
expected.
Credit: 1 unit
SYMPHONIC ORCHESTRA HONORS
Eligible Grade Level: 10, 11, 12
Grade Weighted
COURSE IS REPEATABLE
This course follows the same curriculum as Symphonic Orchestra with increased vigor, performances juries, and
recital participation. The course is offered for weighted credit, and students must be pre-approved by the course
instructor and the Fine Arts Department Chairperson. See course instructor for pre-approval form.
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INSTRUMENTAL – WINDS & PERCUSSION
Credit: 1 unit
CONCERT BAND
Eligible Grade Level: 9, 10, 11, 12
Concert Band is a full year course which meets daily for Fine Arts credit. Students are placed in Concert Band
following spring auditions that are held on campus and at various middle/junior high schools. This course focuses
on developing individual performance proficiency and overall musicianship through a comprehensive curriculum.
Literature studied is suited to the ability of the ensemble, and reinforces the theory of music as well as creative
thinking. Private lessons are encouraged. Students in this course perform 3-5 times each year outside of the school
day. Attendance at all events is expected.
Credit: 1 unit
SYMPHONIC BAND
Eligible Grade Level: 9, 10, 11, 12
Symphonic Band is a full year course which meets daily for Fine Arts credit. Students are placed in Symphonic
Band following spring auditions that are held on campus and at various middle/junior high schools. This course
focuses on developing individual performance proficiency and overall musicianship through a comprehensive
curriculum. Literature studied is suited to the ability of the ensemble, and reinforces the theory of music as well as
creative thinking. Private lessons are encouraged. Students in this course perform 3-5 times each year outside of
the school day. Attendance at all events is expected.
Credit: 1 unit
WIND SYMPHONY (South Only)
Eligible Grade Level: 9, 10, 11, 12
Wind Symphony is a full year course which meets daily for Fine Arts credit. Students are placed in Wind
Symphony following spring auditions that are held on campus and at various middle/junior high schools. This
course focuses on developing individual performance proficiency and overall musicianship through a
comprehensive curriculum. Literature studied is suited to the ability of the ensemble, and reinforces the theory of
music as well as creative thinking. Private lessons are encouraged. Students in this course perform 3-5 times each
year outside of the school day. Attendance at all events is expected.
Credit: 1 unit
WIND ENSEMBLE
Eligible Grade Level: 9, 10, 11, 12
Wind Ensemble is a full year course which meets daily for Fine Arts credit. Students are placed in Wind Ensemble
following spring auditions that are held on campus and at various middle/junior high schools. This course focuses
on developing individual performance proficiency and overall musicianship through a comprehensive curriculum.
Literature studied is suited to the ability of the ensemble, and reinforces the theory of music as well as creative
thinking. Private lessons are encouraged. Students in this course perform 5-7 times each year outside of the school
day. Attendance at all events is expected.
Credit: 1 unit
WIND ENSEMBLE HONORS
Eligible Grade Level: 10, 11, 12
Grade Weighted
COURSE IS REPEATABLE
This course follows the same curriculum as Wind Ensemble with increased vigor, performance juries, and recital
participation. The course is offered for weighted credit, and students must be pre-approved by the course instructor
and Fine Arts Department Chairperson. See course instructor for pre-approval form.
CO-CURRICULAR INSTRUMENTAL ENSEMBLES
Credit: None
In addition to the large instrumental ensembles, the program in District 99 offers opportunities for students to seek
added performance opportunities beyond their curricular coursework. These opportunities include, but are not
limited to: Marching Band, Pep Band, and Pit Orchestra. These ensembles perform at various school district and
community events. Additional information about these ensembles may be obtained through the Fine Arts
Department website or the music faculty.
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INSTRUMENTAL – JAZZ
Credit: 1 unit
JAZZ LAB BAND
Eligible Grade Level: 9, 10, 11 12
Jazz Lab Band provides music students with an opportunity to explore all forms of jazz through the study of big
band, combo, and modern jazz literature. While performing jazz music, students will be encouraged to expand their
creativity through the process of improvisation. Students in this course will participate in several jazz festivals and
field trips. Additionally, students in this course perform at numerous school and community events. Attendance is
required at all curricular and co-curricular performances. All members of this course must be concurrently enrolled
in another instrumental ensemble (with the exception of piano and guitar). Membership in this course is based on
audition during the first week of the school year. Students interested in the course should pre-register, attain
audition music in May/June, practice the music during the summer, and sign up for an audition as the school year
begins. This course is offered daily as an Early Bird class (7:00 – 7:50 a.m.). Students must arrange their own
transportation.
Credit: 1 unit
JAZZ ENSEMBLE
Eligible Grade Level: 9, 10, 11, 12
Jazz Ensemble emphasizes aesthetic education through improvisation and performance of advanced jazz literature;
harmonic, rhythmic and structural complexities of jazz, jazz history and solo transcriptions. Students in this course
will participate in several jazz festivals and field trips. Additionally, students in this course perform at numerous
school and community events. Attendance is required at all curricular and co-curricular performances. All
members of this course must be concurrently enrolled in another instrumental ensemble (with the exception of piano
and guitar). Membership in this course is based on audition during the first week of the school year. Students
interested in the course should pre-register, attain audition music in May/June, practice the music during the
summer, and sign up for an audition as the school year begins. This course is offered daily as an Early Bird class
(7:00 – 7:50 a.m.). Students must arrange their own transportation.
Credit: 1 unit
JAZZ ENSEMBLE HONORS
Eligible Grade Level: 9, 10, 11, 12
Grade Weighted
COURSE IS REPEATABLE
This course follows the same curriculum as Jazz Ensemble with increased vigor, performance juries, and recital
participation. The course is offered for weighted credit, and students must be pre-approved by the course instructor
and Fine Arts Department Chairperson. See course instructor for pre-approval form.
NON-PERFORMANCE
Credit: 1/2 unit
DIGITAL MUSIC
Eligible Grade Level: 9, 10, 11, 12
This course is designed to give students of varied musical backgrounds an opportunity to study creative music
composition in a high-tech arena. Students will learn how to arrange, compose, and perform music using digitally
controlled synthesizers and computers. This one-semester course will combine a study of various contemporary and
historical musical styles with hands-on computer sequencing and digital audio editing techniques. The classroom
setting will allow students to work both individually and in collaborative teams. Students will also study a variety of
compositional techniques including music from several different cultures. As a result, several original compositions
will be created that can be saved as digital audio files. This course is designed to accommodate students of all music
ability levels.
Credit: 1/2 Unit
GUITAR I
Eligible Grade Level: 9, 10, 11, 12
This semester course, which meets daily, will serve as a general introduction to guitar playing for students with little
or no previous experience. Elements of basic guitar technique to be covered include: tuning, elementary chords,
fingering, basic strums, basic note reading, understanding of basic time signatures and counting. Students will be
exposed to the various styles of guitar performance, such as folk, blues, rock and classical music. Students must
have access to their own 6-string acoustic guitar.
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Credit: 1/2 unit
GUITAR II
Eligible Grade Level: 9, 10, 11, 12
This semester course is an intermediate level class for the guitarist who is past the beginning stages of development,
has a high level of interest, and wants to progress to a more advanced level of proficiency on the instrument.
Prerequisite is having taken Guitar 1 or the permission of the instructor. Students must have access to their own 6string acoustic guitar.
Credit: 1/2 unit
POP MUSIC STYLES
Eligible Grade Level: 9, 10, 11, 12
This semester course gives students an opportunity to listen to and evaluate the wide range of popular music of
America. Various contemporary and early styles will be explored including folk, Dixieland, blues, jazz, soul,
country-western, and various rock styles. Performers and their lifestyles will be examined to determine their
influence and impact on the current listening public. The course is designed for any student interested in the
exploration of music, and is easily accessible to those with no previous musical knowledge or performance
experience.
Credit: 1 unit
AP MUSIC THEORY
Eligible Grade Level: 11, 12
This course is offered for students who have a serious interest in music and want to improve their comprehension of
the musical language. Course objectives include a review of the basic elements of music, notation, harmony, and
analytical techniques with special emphasis on ear training and sight-reading. Individualized projects focus on
historical background, composition, and arranging. The first semester of this course may be taken for 1/2 unit of
credit. This class is offered as an Early Bird class (7:00 - 7:50 a.m.). Students must arrange their own
transportation.
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VISUAL ART
Visual Art courses enable individual aesthetic awareness through a variety of 2D and 3D experiences. Exploration
of artistic technique through a range of entry level course offerings is encouraged to ensure success in upper level art
courses. Several arts courses require students to augment basic supplies with the purchase of additional materials.
VISUAL ART SEQUENCE CHART
Visual Art course offerings are sequenced progressively by media.
Ceramics I
Design I
Ceramics II
Design II
Ceramics Studio
Design Studio
AP Studio Art: 3D Design (Ceramics)
AP Studio Art: 2D Design (Design)
Jewelry & Metalwork I
Digital Photography I
Jewelry & Metalwork II
Digital Photography II
Jewelry & Metalwork Studio
Digital Photography Studio
AP Studio Art: 3D Design (Jewelry & Metalwork)
AP Studio Art: 2D Design (Digital Photography)
Computer Art I
AP Art History
Computer Art II
Computer Art Studio
AP Studio Art: 2D Design (Computer Design)
Studio Level courses in any of the Visual Art sequences are repeatable
Drawing & Painting I
Painting II
Drawing II
Painting II
Drawing II
Painting III
Drawing III
Drawing & Painting Studio
AP Studio Art: Drawing & Painting
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Credit: 1 unit
AP ART HISTORY
Eligible Grade Level: 10, 11, 12
Grade Weighted
Prerequisites: None
The AP Art History course endeavors to engage students at the same level as an introductory college art history
survey. The course involves critical thinking and develops an understanding and knowledge of diverse historical
and cultural contexts of architecture, sculpture, painting, and other media. In the course, students examine and
critically analyze major forms of artistic expression from the past and present from a variety of cultures. While
visual analysis is a fundamental tool of the art historian, art history emphasizes understanding how and why works
of art function in context, considering such issues as patronage, gender, and the functions and effects of works of
art. Many colleges and universities offer advanced placement and/or credit to students who have performed
successfully on the AP Art History Exam. This course is strongly recommended for students who plan to pursue a
career in art, or those who seek humanitarian enrichment and potential advanced placement at the college/university
level.
CERAMICS
Credit: 1/2 Unit
CERAMICS I
Eligible Grade Level: 9, 10, 11, 12
Prerequisites: None
Ceramics I is the fundamental course leading into Ceramics II and Ceramics Studio. Students receive instruction in
hand building methods such as slab and coil construction. The course also includes an explanation of kiln firing,
methods of glazing, methods of decorating, and an introduction to the potter’s wheel. All projects are studentplanned with the help of the instructor. Students will learn terms, concepts and technical skills related to ceramic
ware. They will also investigate various methods of decorating and glazing.
Credit: 1/2 unit
CERAMICS II
Eligible Grade Level: 9, 10, 11, 12
Prerequisites: Ceramics I
This course is a continuation of Ceramics I using the techniques and knowledge of the media gained during
Ceramics I. Ceramics II students may specialize at this time in hand building, beginning potter’s wheel and
sculpture. Advanced techniques in glazing and surface decoration are also more fully explored.
Credit: 1/2 unit
CERAMICS STUDIO
Eligible Grade Level: 10, 11, 12
Prerequisites: Ceramics I and Ceramics II
STUDIO LEVEL COURSES ARE REPEATABLE
In this course students choose their own area of concentration. The student may specialize in projects and
techniques of his or her choice, i.e. potter’s wheel, sculpture, and advanced glazing techniques. Some written work
will be required of advanced students. Work in this course will focus on preparing students in portfolio
development that might lead to later submission of the College Board’s Advanced Placement visual art portfolio.
Credit: 1/2 unit
AP STUDIO ART: 3D DESIGN (CERAMICS)
Eligible Grade Level: 10, 11, 12
Grade Weighted
Prerequisites: Ceramics I, Ceramics II, Ceramics Studio, and/or Instructor permission
STUDIO LEVEL COURSES ARE REPEATABLE
This course follows the same curriculum as Ceramics Studio with increased rigor and the development of the
College Board AP Art Portfolio. The course is offered for weighted credit, and students must be pre-approved by
the course instructor and Fine Arts Department Chairperson. See course instructor for pre-approval form.
COMPUTER ART
Credit: 1/2 unit
COMPUTER ART I
Eligible Grade Level: 9, 10, 11, 12
Prerequisites: None
This course teaches students how to use the computer as an artistic tool. Students will expand creative abilities
utilizing computer images in a graphic arts format. Working with graphics software, scanners, and digital cameras,
students will focus on the elements and principles of design and their practical applications. Previous computer
experience is not required.
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Credit: 1/2 unit
COMPUTER ART II
Eligible Grade Level: 9, 10, 11, 12
Prerequisites: Design I or Computer Art I
This course expands upon skills developed in the Computer Art I class. More emphasis is placed on creativity and
the formation of a personal style. Advanced concepts in Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator are applied to complex,
student-directed projects. Poster design, lettering, story illustrations, T.V. storyboards, product design, newspaper
and magazine advertisements and package design are some of the commercial media explored.
Credit: 1/2 unit
COMPUTER ART STUDIO
Eligible Grade Level: 10, 11, 12
Prerequisites: Computer Art I and Computer Art II
STUDIO LEVEL COURSES ARE REPEATABLE
This course expands upon skills developed in the Computer Art I and Computer Art II. Students will design and
create artwork that incorporates advanced artistic concepts, including but not limited to: Independent thinking, SelfAwareness/Reflection, Portfolio Development & Assembly, Scanned Imagery, Digital Photography, Utilizing
Drawing Tablets, Stylistic Exploration, Thematic Concentration Development, Written Critiques and Artistic
Statements. Advanced concepts in Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator are applied to complex, student-directed
projects. Work in this course will focus on preparing students in portfolio development that might lead to later
submission of the College Board’s Advanced Placement visual art portfolio.
Credit: 1/2 unit
AP STUDIO ART: 2D DESIGN (COMPUTER ART)
Eligible Grade Level: 10, 11, 12
Grade Weighted
Prerequisites: Computer Art I, Computer Art II, Computer Art Studio, and/or permission of
instructor
STUDIO LEVEL COURSES ARE REPEATABLE
This course follows the same curriculum as Computer Art Studio with increased rigor and the development of the
College Board AP Art Portfolio. The course is offered for weighted credit, and students must be pre-approved by
the course instructor and Fine Arts Department Chairperson. See course instructor for pre-approval form.
DESIGN
Credit: 1/2 Unit
DESIGN I
Eligible Grade Level: 9, 10, 11, 12
Prerequisites: None
This course offers a foundation in the basic principles of design. The elements of design: line, shape, value, texture,
space and color are explored through a variety of projects. Design I encourages creative thinking and problem
solving. Students are exposed to the field of commercial design through individual and group work continuing into
Design II and Design Studio for advanced study. Additional class materials are needed which must be purchased for
a nominal cost.
Credit: 1/2 unit
DESIGN II
Eligible Grade Level: 9, 10, 11, 12
Prerequisites: Design I
Design II is a course designed to explore various world cultures and includes the study of crafts, such as handmade
paper, batik, block and silk screen printing, basketry, tie dye and more. The elements and principles of design are
stressed, as well as creativity and craftsmanship. Projects may vary from semester to semester, but are likely to
include Scratchboard-Illuminated Monograms, Metal tooling-Aluminum Frame, Paper Mache Mask Making,
Linoleum Block Printing.
Credit: 1/2 unit
DESIGN STUDIO
Eligible Grade Level: 10, 11, 12
Prerequisites: Design I and Design II
STUDIO LEVEL COURSES ARE REPEATABLE
Students will use the techniques and knowledge of the media gained during Design I and further developed in
Design II. Students will design and create artwork that incorporates advanced techniques that may include but not
be restricted to the following: printing techniques, collage techniques, basketry, metalworking, scratchboard,
sculpture techniques, and will investigate a variety of both historical and contemporary mixed media art and artists
for future design and technical reference. Students will perfect their ability to critique their work and the work of
others. Work in this course will focus on preparing students in portfolio development that might lead to later
submission of the College Board’s Advanced Placement visual art portfolio.
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Credit: 1/2 unit
AP STUDIO ART: 2D DESIGN (DESIGN)
Eligible Grade Level: 10, 11, 12
Grade Weighted
Prerequisites: Design I, Design II, Design Studio, and/or permission of instructor
STUDIO LEVEL COURSES ARE REPEATABLE
This course follows the same curriculum as Design Studio with increased rigor and the development of the College
Board AP Art Portfolio. The course is offered for weighted credit, and students must be pre-approved by the course
instructor and Fine Arts Department Chairperson. See course instructor for pre-approval form.
DIGITAL PHOTOGRAPHY
Credit: 1/2 unit
DIGITAL PHOTOGRAPHY I
Eligible Grade Level: 9, 10, 11, 12
Prerequisites: Students must have access to an adjustable digital 35mm (DSLR) camera with a
built in light meter. Students may not use automatic point and shoot cameras
Students will emphasize both the creative and technical processes of taking and processing digital RAW images.
Students will explore lighting, the elements of art (line, value, texture, color and space) and the principles involving
composition (selection and arrangement.) They will edit, refine, retouch and manipulate their photographs using
imaging and editing software such as Adobe Photoshop and Adobe Lightroom. The history and appreciation of
photography will be explored by studying both historical and contemporary photographers. Lastly, students will
learn how to output their photographs in both print and online format (blog) for critique, exhibition, and display. The
majority of shooting assignments will be accomplished outside of class as homework. A few shoots will be done in
class in the photo studio with professional lights and studio gear. This course requires an adjustable DSLR camera.
Additional class materials are needed which must be purchased for a nominal cost.
Credit: 1/2 unit
DIGITAL PHOTOGRAPHY II
Eligible Grade Level: 9, 10, 11, 12
Prerequisites: Digital Photography I
Students will expand on the basic photographic tools and techniques introduced in Digital Photo I. There will be an
emphasis on both image capture (taking photos) with the digital camera and using the computer as a creative tool. In
addition, students will gain an understanding of studio lighting techniques, file management procedures, and more
specific software skills using Adobe’s Creative Suite (specifically Photoshop and Illustrator) and Adobe Lightroom.
Students will create large high quality prints for exhibition.
Credit:1/2 unit
DIGITAL PHOTOGRAPHY STUDIO
Eligible Grade Level: 10, 11, 12
Prerequisites: Digital Photography I and Digital Photography II.
STUDIO LEVEL COURSES ARE REPEATABLE
Students will work at a variety of levels that continue to explore the creative and technical possibilities of digital
photography. This will include advanced techniques involved in image capture, refinement, manipulation and
output. Output may include photographic prints, books, and images online in a personal photographic blog. Students
will investigate contemporary digital photographers and current digital imaging practices and applications. Emphasis
will be on the development of the student’s self-expression using more sophisticated subjects and themes. Students
must supply an external drive holding between 32 and 320 GB of memory. Students taking Studio for the second
time must supply a portfolio case to store and present their finished artwork. Work in this course will focus on
preparing students in portfolio development that might lead to later submission of the College Board’s Advanced
Placement visual art portfolio.
Credit: 1/2 unit
AP STUDIO ART: 2D DESIGN (DIGITAL PHOTOGRAPHY)
Eligible Grade Level: 10, 11, 12
Grade Weighted
Prerequisites: Digital Photography I, Digital Photography II, Digital Photography Studio,
and/or permission of instructor
STUDIO LEVEL COURSES ARE REPEATABLE
This course follows the same curriculum as Digital Photography Studio with increased rigor and the development of
the College Board AP Art Portfolio. The course is offered for weighted credit, and students must be pre-approved
by the course instructor and Fine Arts Department Chairperson. See course instructor for pre-approval form.
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DRAWING & PAINTING
Credit: 1/2 unit
DRAWING AND PAINTING I
Eligible Grade Level: 9, 10, 11, 12
Prerequisites: None
This course offers a wide range of experiences which prepare students for continued study in drawing and painting
classes. Students are introduced to color theory, drawing, painting and art history. Range of media may include
ebony pencil, tempera paint, pen and ink. Skills and techniques pertinent to artistic success will be infused with
instruction in the Elements and Principles of Design. Additional class materials are needed which must be
purchased for a nominal cost.
Credit: 1/2 unit
DRAWING II
Eligible Grade Level: 9, 10, 11, 12
Prerequisites: Drawing and Painting I
Students acquire the knowledge and skills required to express imaginative ideas with a variety of drawing media
which may include ebony and colored pencils, pastel, and pen and ink. Assignments may include a self-portrait,
still-life, and creation of original artworks. Sketchbook required.
Credit: 1/2 unit
PAINTING II
Eligible Grade Level: 9, 10, 11, 12
Prerequisites: Drawing & Painting I
In this course, students will explore basic themes of still life, portraiture and landscape, while developing skills in a
variety of painting mediums, including acrylic, oil, ink wash and water color.
Credit: 1/2 unit
DRAWING III
Eligible Grade Level: 10, 11, 12
Prerequisites: Drawing II
Drawing III expands upon Drawing II skills. Additional media may include pastels, graphite, conte, charcoal, pen
and ink, and colored pencil. Personal style and imagination are stressed.
Credit: 1/2 unit
PAINTING III
Eligible Grade Level: 10, 11, 12
Prerequisites: Painting II
This course builds on understanding, skills, and techniques developed in Painting II. The student is encouraged to
learn creative ways to use tools and to develop a meaningful personal style. Techniques in acrylic, watercolor, and
oil may be explored. Painting styles may include hard-edge and soft-edge abstractions, realism, impressionism and
expressionism. The student is encouraged to develop his/her own style.
Credit: 1/2 unit
DRAWING & PAINTING STUDIO
Eligible Grade Level: 10, 11, 12
Prerequisite: Drawing and Painting I, and Painting II/Painting III, or Drawing II/Drawing III
STUDIO LEVEL COURSES ARE REPEATABLE
A variety of advanced painting and drawing projects are completed. The students are encouraged to experiment
with many painting and drawing materials and techniques with attention to forming their own individual style, in
order to build a comprehensive portfolio. Still life landscapes, portraits, figure drawing, and art history are some of
the artistic areas explored. Additional fees will not exceed $40.00 to pay fees for additional portfolio submissions
and to furnish additional supplies for assignments. Work in this course will focus on preparing students in portfolio
development that might lead to later submission of the College Board’s Advanced Placement visual art portfolio.
Credit: 1/2 unit
AP STUDIO ART: DRAWING AND PAINTING
Eligible Grade Level: 10, 11, 12
Grade Weighted
Prerequisite: Drawing and Painting I, and Painting II/Painting III, or Drawing II/Drawing III
& Painting Studio and/or permission of instructor
STUDIO LEVEL COURSES ARE REPEATABLE
This course follows the same curriculum as Drawing & Painting Studio with increased rigor and development of the
AP Art Portfolio. The course is offered for weighted credit, and students must be pre-approved by the course
instructor and Fine Arts Department Chairperson. See course instructor for pre-approval form.
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JEWELRY & METALWORK
Credit: 1/2 unit
JEWELRY & METALWORK I
Eligible Grade Level: 9, 10, 11, 12
Prerequisites: None
This course concentrates on the design and construction of wearable jewelry. Basic topics covered will include:
tools and materials, sawing, soldering, piercing, forming, surface treatment, wire work, basic wax carving, stone
setting and finishing techniques. Students will produce work in nickel silver, brass, copper and sterling silver.
Students will work with sheet metal and wire using power and hand tools. Students will cast a ring using the lost
wax method. Items to be made will include earrings, pendants, rings, pins, etc. Emphasis will be placed on drawing
and making creative designs that are well crafted. Students will explore designs from different times and cultures.
Additional class materials are needed which must be purchased for a nominal cost.
Credit: 1/2 unit
JEWELRY & METALWORK II
Eligible Grade Level: 9, 10, 11, 12
Prerequisites: Jewelry & Metalwork I
This course builds on principles and skills developed in Jewelry and Metalwork I. Students will learn more
advanced fabricating (construction) and casting techniques. Students will use advanced decorative techniques such
as chasing and inlaying in order to enhance their pieces. Items that will be made include bracelets, necklaces,
pendants, rings, and earrings. A strong emphasis will be placed on creative designs and craftsmanship. Cultural
uses and the history of jewelry making will be explored.
Credit: 1/2 unit
JEWELRY & METALWORK STUDIO
Eligible Grade Level: 10, 11, 12
Prerequisites: Jewelry & Metalwork I, Jewelry & Metalwork II
STUDIO LEVEL COURSES ARE REPEATABLE
This course is designed for students seeking advanced work in jewelry and metalwork. Topics covered will include
etching, forging, raising, forming, PMC, enameling, inlaying, stone setting, bead making, hinges and chain making.
Work in this course will focus on preparing students in portfolio development that might lead to later submission of
the College Board’s Advanced Placement visual art portfolio.
Credit: 1/2 unit
AP STUDIO ART: 3D DESIGN (JEWELRY & METALWORK)
Eligible Grade Level: 10, 11, 12
Grade Weighted
Prerequisites: Jewelry & Metalwork I, Jewelry & Metalwork II, Jewelry & Metalwork Studio,
and/or permission of instructor
STUDIO LEVEL COURSES ARE REPEATABLE
This course follows the same curriculum as Jewelry and Metalwork Studio with an increased rigor and the
development of the College Board AP Art Portfolio. The course is offered for weighted credit, and students must
be pre-approved by the course instructor and Fine Arts Department Chairperson. See course instructor for preapproval form.
47
MATHEMATICS
In a technological society there is a reliance on mathematical competence and understanding to process quantitative
information, to solve problems creatively and resourcefully, and to use technology appropriately. Students have
different abilities, needs, and interests; yet each student needs to be able to use mathematics in his or her personal
life, in the workplace, and in further study. The Mathematics Department offers a variety of courses designed to
provide students with a coherent and challenging curriculum at levels designed to accommodate student differences.
Instructional strategies promote engaged student learning and appropriate use of technology. To insure proper
placement in future coursework, math teachers make individual recommendations for all students each year. Due to
the transition between math curriculums, it may become necessary to place students in courses that have otherwise
been discontinued; this will only occur on an individual basis and under the directive of the department chair.
COURSE OFFERINGS
AP Calculus AB
AP Calculus BC
AP Statistics
Calculus 3 (1st Semester)
College Algebra 300
Consumer Math
Discrete Mathematics 300
Foundations for Math 1
Math 1
Math 2
Math 2 Honors
Math 3 *
Math 3 Honors *
Precalculus 300
Precalculus 400
*PENDING BOARD APPROVAL
MATHEMATICS HONORS PROGRAM
The Mathematics Honors Course Sequence is offered as an opportunity for students to experience increased depth
and rigor of topics and concepts. Honors math students tend to be interested in mathematics, enjoy a challenge, and
quickly see connections. Honors math classes develop concepts from a more theoretical perspective, use less
directive teaching strategies, and require a greater level of student independence. Teachers make recommendations
for honors classes based on observations and assessment data. All honors and AP courses are grade-weighted.
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District 99 Math Curriculum
2015-16
Math 2H
Math 3H*
Precalculus 400
AP Calculus BC
Calculus III
AP Statistics
AP Calculus AB
Math 1/1S
Math 2/2S
Math 3/3S*
Precalculus 300
College Algebra 300
Discrete Math 300
Consumer Math
Foundations
For Math 1
* Pending Board Approval
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Credit: 1 unit
FOUNDATIONS FOR MATH 1
Eligible Grade level: 9
Prerequisite: Department Chair Approval
This course is designed for a student who has not successfully completed a grade 8 math course based upon the
Common Core Mathematics Standards. The content of this course will focus exclusively on the new grade 8
standards so that upon successful completion a student will be prepared to enter Math 1. A scientific calculator is
required; the TI-30X model is strongly recommended.
Credit: 1 unit
MATH 1/1S
Eligible Grade level: 9, 10
Prerequisite: Successful Completion of a grade 8 mathematics course based on the Common
Core State Standards for Mathematics
The purpose of this course is to extend the mathematics that students learned in the middle grades. Overarching
themes are centered around deepening and extending linear relationships, exploring exponential relationships, the
concept of a function, summarizing, representing, and interpreting statistical data, and algebraic connections in the
area of coordinate geometry. The Common Core Mathematical Practices apply throughout this course and will
allow students to experience mathematics as a coherent, useful, and logical subject that helps make sense of problem
situations. A graphing calculator is required for this course; the TI-83 or TI-84 model is strongly
recommended.
Credit: 1 unit
MATH 2/2S
Eligible Grade level: 9, 10, 11
Prerequisite: Math 1/1S, grade of C or higher recommended
This course builds upon the foundation established in Math 1/1S. Overarching themes are centered on deepening and
extending linear and exponential relationships, exploring quadratic relationships, geometric similarity, right triangle
trigonometry, and conditional probability. The Common Core Standards of Mathematical Practice apply throughout
this course and students will continue to experience mathematics as a coherent, useful, and logical subject that helps
make sense of problem situations. A graphing calculator is required for this course: the TI-83 or TI-84 model is
strongly recommended.
Credit: 1 unit
MATH 2 HONORS
Eligible Grade level: 9, 10
Prerequisite: Math 1, grade of A and teacher recommendation
The content of the Math 2 course as described above will serve as the foundation for this course, yet some topics
will be covered at a deeper level and additional topics will also be studied. The Common Core Standards of
Mathematical Practice will apply throughout, and students will be expected to demonstrate these practices at a more
independent level. A graphing calculator is required for this course; the TI-83 or TI-84 is strongly
recommended.
Credit: 1 unit
MATH 3/3S* *PENDING BOARD APPROVAL
Eligible Grade level: 9, 10, 11
Prerequisite: Math 2/2S, grade of C or higher recommended
This course builds upon the foundation established in Math 2. Overarching themes are centered on exploring
polynomial, rational and radical relationships; trigonometry; modeling of inverse, logarithmic, and trigonometric
functions; geometric modeling; connections between algebra and geometry; and statistical inferences and
conclusions from data. The Common Core Standards of Mathematical Practice apply throughout this course and
students will continue to experience mathematics as a coherent, useful, and logical subject that helps make sense of
problem situations. A graphing calculator is required for this course: a TI83 or TI84 model is strongly
recommended.
Credit: 1 unit
MATH 3 HONORS* *PENDING BOARD APPROVAL
Eligible Grade level: 9, 10, 11
Prerequisite: Math 2 and either a) Teacher recommendation or b) Department approval
The content of the Math 3 course as described above will serve as the foundation for this course, yet some topics
will be covered at a deeper level and additional topics will also be studied. The Common Core Standards of
Mathematical Practice will apply throughout, and students will be expected to demonstrate these practices at a more
independent level. A graphing calculator is required for this course; the TI-83 or TI-84 is strongly
recommended.
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Credit: 1 unit
DISCRETE MATHEMATICS 300
Eligible Grade Level: 12
Prerequisites: Advanced Algebra & Trigonometry 200, or Department Approval
This course is designed for the college-bound student who does not intend to study Calculus. Through problemsolving and critical thinking, students will explore applications in several professional and career fields. Topics will
include election theory, fair division algorithms, matrices, graph theory, and recursion. The course will also include
basic concepts of finite and discrete algebraic structures, activities related to the mathematics of personal finance,
review and extension of algebra skills, a survey of statistics and probability, and preparation for college placement
testing. This is a year-long course. A graphing calculator is required for this course; the TI-83 or TI-84 model
is strongly recommended.
Credit: 1 unit
COLLEGE ALGEBRA 300
Eligible Grade level: 12
Prerequisite: Advanced Algebra & Trigonometry 300, grade of C or higher recommended.
This course is designed to further strengthen and enhance advanced algebraic topics. Precalculus concepts and skills
will be explored through algebraic manipulations and problem-solving. The focus of this course will be on
connections between concepts and practical applications of those concepts. Successful completion of this course will
prepare students for enrollment in a college-level Precalculus course. A graphing calculator is required for this
course; the TI-83 or TI-84 model is strongly recommended.
Credit: 1 unit
PRECALCULUS 300
Eligible Grade Level: 10, 11, 12
Prerequisite: Advanced Algebra & Trigonometry 300, grade of C or better is recommended.
This course is a continuation of Advanced Algebra & Trigonometry 300. Additional topics include functions
(polynomial, rational, exponential, and logarithmic), vectors, parametrics, trigonometry (functions, equations, and
identities), inverse trigonometric functions, polar coordinates, and sequences and series. Successful completion of
this course prepares students for entry into Calculus. A graphing calculator is required for this course; the TI-83
or TI-84 model is strongly recommended.
Credit: 1 unit
PRECALCULUS 400
Eligible Grade Level: 9, 10, 11, 12
Grade Weighted
Prerequisite: Advanced Algebra & Trigonometry and either a) teacher recommendation or
b) Department Approval.
This course covers additional topics not covered in the Precalculus 300 class and delves more deeply into others.
Solving non-routine problems is an area of emphasis. Successful completion of this course prepares students for
entry into Calculus. A graphing calculator is required for this course; the TI-83 or TI-84 model is strongly
recommended.
Credit: 1 unit
AP CALCULUS AB
Eligible Grade Level: 11, 12
Grade Weighted
Prerequisites: Precalculus 300, grade of C or better is recommended.
This course is the equivalent of Calculus I at the university level. Three primary overarching topics make up the
foundation of the course curriculum: limits, differentiation, and integration. Students who successfully complete
this course are prepared to take the Calculus AB Advanced Placement Exam. A graphing calculator is required
for this course; the TI-83 or TI-84 model is strongly recommended.
Credit: 1 unit
AP CALCULUS BC
Eligible Grade Level: 10, 11,12
Grade Weighted
Prerequisites: Precalculus 400, grade of C or better is recommended, OR Calculus AB, OR
Teacher Recommendation.
This course is the equivalent of Calculus I & II at the university level. In addition to the differential and integral
calculus topics covered in AP Calculus AB, students in this course will study: the formal definition of a limit, linear
approximation, differentials and error, L’Hopital’s Rule, Newton’s Method, work, Euler’s Method, logistics, the
calculus of parametric and polar curves, and infinite series. Students who successfully complete this course are
prepared to take the Calculus BC Advanced Placement Exam. A graphing calculator is required for this course;
the TI-83 or TI-84 model is strongly recommended.
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Credit: 1 unit
AP STATISTICS
Eligible Grade: 11, 12
Grade Weighted
Prerequisites: Precalculus 300, grade of C or better is recommended; OR Advanced Algebra
& Trigonometry 300 with teacher recommendation and Department Approval
This non-calculus based statistics course is designed to introduce students to the major tools and methods of
collecting, analyzing, and drawing conclusions from data. The main topics of study include exploring data, planning
studies, anticipating patterns in advance, and using statistical inference. Students who successfully complete this
course are prepared to take the Statistics Advanced Placement Exam. A graphing calculator is required for this
course; the TI-83 or TI-84 model is strongly recommended.
Credit: 1 unit
CONSUMER MATHEMATICS
Eligible Grade Level: 12
Prerequisite: Department Chair Approval
Note: Successful completion of both semesters of this course meets the graduation
requirement for Consumer Education.
The mathematics associated with consumer topics is the focus of this course. Topics include payroll, banking
services, installment purchasing, home rental and ownership, insurance, income tax, and investments. This course
satisfies one unit of graduation requirement in mathematics, but does not meet college entrance requirements for
mathematics.
Note: A student may not receive Consumer Education credit for Consumer Education or Personal
Economics if Consumer Mathematics is taken.
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PHYSICAL EDUCATION
PHYSICAL EDUCATION
Prerequisites: None
Credit: 1/2 unit per semester
See Graduation Requirements on Page 4
The Physical Education and Health Department of District 99 adheres to the Board of Education philosophy
regarding the education of the intellect. Focusing on intellectual as well as physical development allows for total
wellness. This comprehensive program is designed to develop and foster knowledge and understanding, creativity,
critical thinking, and problem solving.
The Physical Education and Health Department of District 99 values this overall concept of wellness for its students.
Encouraging the total development of the student with emphasis upon physical, social and emotional well-being
allows for short- and long-term goal achievement. The wellness program designs specific educational and activity
programs that include choices and decisions based on healthy attitudes for a positive lifestyle. Specifically, the
practical application of physical education and wellness allows for greater kinesthetic sense, aesthetic awareness,
self-identity and self-esteem.
This philosophy addresses the premise that physical education and wellness are a part of the educational process
seeking to transmit, evaluate and enrich aspects of culture. Sport as a valued cultural form plays a vital role in
human life.
With the all-encompassing nature of physical education, opportunities to develop individual potential for a
productive, healthy and well-balanced future are possible. It is through psychomotor, cognitive and affective
learning that students are prepared for their present educational roles and future goals. The comprehensive program
includes fitness and fitness-related activities, team sports, dual sports, individual sports and activities, rhythmic
movements, aquatics, life-survival skills, health-related activities and activities promoting lifetime recreational
pursuits.
All students will be assessed a one-time lock fee when they enroll in their first Physical Education class. They will
also be expected to wear the required shirt in all of the Physical Education classes. Information about shirt costs and
how to purchase them will be sent in the registration packets.
MISSION STATEMENT:
Infuse all four years with activity, fitness, and wellness so students will practice healthy behaviors for a lifetime. In
order to meet the departmental Mission Statement, Health themes will be integrated into the Physical Education
curriculum.
Physical Education/Health/Driver Education Course Sequence
Freshman Year
PATH 1
PATH 2
PE/Wellness 1
PE/Wellness 1
Health & Driver
Education
PE/Wellness 2
& Health
Junior Year
PE/Wellness 2 &
Jr/Sr Selective
Driver Education &
Jr/Sr Selective
Senior Year
Jr/Sr Selective
each semester
Jr/Sr Selective
each semester
Sophomore Year
STUDENTS
MUST
TAKE PE/WELLNESS
PHYSICAL
EDUCATION
AND WELLNESS
I
2 BEFORE THEY ENROLL
IN Jr/Sr SELECTIVES
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PHYSICAL EDUCATION AND WELLNESS I
Students’ entry level experiences in the program consist of participation in a full-year core of activities that focus on
the physical development and improvement of the fitness of the student. The activities are sequentially coordinated
with the subsequent two semesters of the required sequence. The activities that aid in meeting the intended student
learning outcomes in which students may participate are as follows.
•
Aquatics I
•
Fitness Assessment (Pre- and Post-Test)
•
Fitness Games
•
Introduction to Fitness
•
Introduction to Gymnastics
•
Introduction to Weight Training
•
Racquet Sports I
•
Recreational Games I
•
Rhythms I
•
Team Sports
PHYSICAL EDUCATION AND WELLNESS II
Students will participate in a minimum of one semester of core activities that focus on the physical development and
improvement of the fitness of the student. The activities are sequentially planned as a continuation of the first two
semesters. Health education is required prior to the end of grade ten (10). In addition, it is recommended that the
third semester of physical development and improvement of fitness also be selected prior to the end of grade ten.
PHYSICAL EDUCATION LEADER/TRAINEES PROGRAM
A special one-year course is offered, by teacher recommendation only, to sophomores and juniors interested in
becoming a Leader within the Physical Education program. The class is geared for the advanced Physical Education
student. Students will learn basic teaching fundamentals, offering skills, and leadership techniques. Upon
successful completion of the Trainee program, the student will enter the Leader portion of the program. All trainees
and leaders receive credit for Physical Education. At North High School this class is two semesters.
SELECTIVE CURRICULUM
Junior and senior students who have completed the Physical Education and Wellness I and Physical Education and
Wellness II sequence of three (3) semesters of core activity, plus Health Education will have the opportunity to
select and build upon previous physical development and fitness experiences that will begin to individualize and
emphasize lifelong physical activity. The curriculum is designed to give the students an understanding of the total
body fitness concepts which include areas in skill-related and health-related fitness. Fitness testing is a requirement
for each of these courses.
NOTE: All fees stated represent the fee from the 2014-2015 school year. Fees are reviewed
and determined by the School Board in the spring for the 2015-2016 school year.
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JUNIOR/SENIOR SELECTIVE CURRICULUM
ADVANCED INDIVIDUAL SKILL SPORTS (Semester 2 Only)
This course is designed to provide students an opportunity to develop health and skill-related fitness through
participation in gymnastics and aerobics and strength training. In the gymnastics unit, techniques and skill are
progressively taught utilizing the rings, pommel horse, vaulting, parallel bars, horizontal bars, balance beam, uneven
bars, and floor exercise. During the Aerobics and Strength Training portion of the course, the students will
participate in various aerobic activities to increase cardiovascular fitness and strength training exercises to increase
muscular strength and endurance. The class will alternate daily between Gymnastics and Aerobics and Strength
Training. Due to facilities, this Course is held at South campus only.
ADVANCED TEAM SPORTS
This course is designed for students who want to be involved in highly competitive team sports activities. Students
will have an opportunity to develop health and skill related fitness through their participation in this course.
Enrollment in this course at North H.S. is by physical education teacher recommendation only.
DANCE TECHNIQUES (Semester 1 Only)
This is an excellent class for the first time dance student. The course is designed to be an exploration into the world
of dance. It is an introduction to various dance forms and techniques including but not limited to ballet and tap. The
course will include a wide variety of activities designed to enhance coordination and body control. All levels of
dance experience are welcome.
EARLY BIRD FITNESS
This course has been designed for individuals who have difficulty fitting all of their classes into their daily schedule.
The emphasis of this class will combine basic training principles as well as some team sports activities to reinforce
fitness levels. Students will learn various ways to measure fitness improvement, monitor and log activity levels,
assess information pertaining to living a healthy lifestyle, and develop a deeper understanding of the health-related
fitness components. This course meets from 7:00 - 7:50 a.m. Students must arrange their own transportation. A
parent permission form is needed to enroll in this class.
EVERYDAY BODY BASICS (Semester 2 Only)
This semester course is designed for students who are interested in exploring total health through aerobic and
anaerobic exercise that encompasses today’s fitness needs. The aerobic portion of this course is designed to
improve cardiovascular fitness through high and low impact routines and conditioning activities. Body Basics is the
answer to your own personal health club. This course may be repeated at North Campus only.
FITNESS 1
This semester course is designed for students who want to greatly improve their health-related fitness level and gain
a better understanding of the anatomy and physiology of exercise through various weight training techniques.
During the course, students will design their own fitness program based on personal goals. Using in-class activities,
students explore the latest nutrition concepts including proper and improper weight loss/gain strategies. Students in
this class will be in the fitness center training with free weights, “selectorized” machines and participating in
classroom activities. This course may not be repeated.
FITNESS 2
This semester course is designed to build on the concepts learned during the Fitness I curriculum. It is for students
who want to greatly improve their health-related fitness levels and gain a better understanding of the anatomy and
physiology of exercise through various advanced weight training techniques. During the course, students will
design their own fitness programs based on personal goals. Using in-class activities, students explore such concepts
as body composition, cardiovascular fitness, and training principles. Students will be in the fitness center training
with free weights, “selectorized” machines and participating in classroom activities. This class is highly
recommended for Varsity Athletes. They will have the ability to get their “training” completed during class instead
of after practice.
INDIVIDUAL/DUAL SPORTS
This course offers a fundamental experience to individual and dual activities that encourage lifelong fitness and
teamwork. All of the health related and skill related components of fitness will be assessed to promote the students
ability to develop lifelong wellness goals. Due to facilities, this course is held at North Campus only.
(Fee: $46.00)
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INDIVIDUAL SKILL SPORTS
This course is designed for students who are interested in participating in activities that provide for individual
physical development and successes. The course may include: Golf, Archery, Rollerblading, Ice Skating, Cross
Country Skiing, and Aerobic Swim. There will also be a fitness component to this course where students will have
an opportunity to increase health-related fitness through the participation in anaerobic and aerobic activities.
An additional cost will be charged for the Golf or Ice Skating unit of this course. (Fee: $46.00)
Due to Facilities, this course is held at South Campus only. This class may not be repeated.
The school only has rollerblades in sizes up to size 14.
LIFEGUARD TRAINING
This semester class will provide students training and instruction in the American Red Cross Lifeguard Course.
Students who pass the water test will be required to purchase a book and face shield for $52 to complete the First
Aid, CPR and AED certification. Students who do not pass the water test will be dropped from the course and
placed in a selective P.E. course.
The prerequisite skills for entry into the Lifeguard Training course are:
 Swim 500 yards continuously, using these strokes in the following order:
 200 yards of front crawl, using rhythmic breathing and stabilizing propellant kick.
 100 yards of breaststroke
 200 yards of either front crawl using rhythmic breathing or breaststroke. These 200 yards must be
a mixture of front crawl and breaststroke.
 Swim 20 yards using front crawl or breaststroke, surface dive to a depth of 7 to 10 feet, retrieve a 10-pound
object, return to surface and swim 20 yards back to the starting point with the object. When returning to
the starting point, the candidate must:
 Hold the 10-pound object with both hands.
 Keep his or her face above the water.
Students will be expected to serve as lifeguards in Physical Education classes the semesters following their
certification. In order to complete the certification, students will need to score at least 80% on both the CPR and
lifeguard written tests.
PARTNER SPORTS
This course is designed to provide the students an opportunity to develop health and skill-related fitness through
participation in “lifelong” Physical Education activities. The course activities may include: Tennis, Pickle Ball,
Badminton, Bowling, and Ping-Pong. During scheduled Bowling days, students will be bused to a nearby public
bowling alley where they will develop skills and knowledge related to Bowling. There will also be a fitness
component to this course where students will have an opportunity to increase health-related fitness through
participation in aerobic and anaerobic activities. (Fee: $46.00) Due to facilities, this course is held at South
campus only. This course may not be repeated.
STRESS MANAGEMENT This course is offered semester 2 only at the North Campus
This semester course focuses on concepts and methods of stress management involving exercise, diet and relaxation
techniques. The classroom instruction combines with individual and recreational fitness activities. This class may
not be repeated.
TEAM SPORTS
This course is designed to provide students with various opportunities to develop health and skill-related fitness,
knowledge of team strategies and an appreciation of team sports through the participation in individual skill
development, practice and tournament play. This course may be repeated at North Campus only
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HEALTH EDUCATION
The health curriculum is designed as a guide to wellness, which is a way of living each day that includes choices and
decisions based upon healthy attitudes. The program provides knowledge for the total development of the
individual’s physical, mental, and social well-being. Students enrolled in Health must purchase the CPR/First
Aid/AED materials kit. (The cost of this kit will be determined at a later date and will be available in the school
bookstore.)
Health Education Program State Requirements
AIDS
CPR & AED
Community
Health
Drug Use/
Abuse
Family Living
First Aid Cert.
Human Sexuality
Mental Health
Nutrition
Personal Health
Sexually Transmitted Disease
Stress Management
Wellness
HEALTH 300
The health curriculum is designed as a guide to wellness, which is a way of living each day that includes choices
and decisions based upon healthy attitudes. The program provides knowledge for the total development of the
individual’s physical, mental, and social well-being. (Fee to be determined.)
HEALTH 200
Contents of the course are the same as described in Health 300. The difference is the attention given to basic skills.
The students in this course are usually recommended by their counselors. (Fee to be determined.) This course is
offered at the South Campus only.
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DRIVER EDUCATION
DRIVER EDUCATION
Prerequisites: In order to be eligible for Driver Education, the State of Illinois requires that students have
passed eight courses (four units of credit) during the previous two semesters prior to taking Driver
Education.
NOTE: The classroom phase of this course is a graduation requirement. A fee of $250 is charged for the
lab portion of this course, as determined by the school board.
The Driver Education program is an integrated program, which means the Classroom phase and Lab phases are
taught throughout the semester on a rotating schedule
The classroom phase will include basic information on Illinois traffic laws, fundamentals of driving, motorcycle
laws, alcohol and driving, and basic car maintenance, distractions, and the importance of good decision making.
The lab phase consists of 6 hours of driving in a dual control car, enabling the student to experience basic driving
skills. (The program changed with the new laws July 1, 2008.)
Parental involvement while the students are enrolled in the course is expected in order to provide the additional
experience required to develop a competent driver. Parents must drive with the students 50 clock hours (ten
hours must be at night) to meet a state requirement before the student can receive their license. A
parental/student involvement program (PIP) will be offered prior to the start of each semester. It is an evening
planned to introduce the parents to the Driver Education program and the staff members, review new laws, and
gives parents guidelines on practicing with their son or daughter.
All students who take drivers education during the regular school year are administered the Secretary of State
Driving Test (Cooperative Driver Test Program - CDTP). Those students who have a grade of an “A” or “B” in
classroom and laboratory and pass the Cooperative Driver Test will receive a certificate exempting him/her from
the road test at the Secretary of State facility.
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SCIENCE
The Science Department believes that a certain degree of familiarity with science is necessary for today’s world.
The sequence of courses may reflect considerable latitude depending upon one’s interests and needs. There are
courses available for all levels of competence ranging from 400 level sections for more advanced students to 200
level classes for students needing additional support and assistance.
The department offers courses in the biological and physical sciences which are sequential in nature and prepare
students for college. Most college admissions criteria include a minimum of at least three credits in laboratory
science. Students who are planning careers in science, health or technical areas should definitely have a three, if not
a four, year foundation in science. The science department staff and the counselor will assist the student in course
selection each year. District 99 offers the following science courses:
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Anatomy & Physiology
AP Biology
AP Chemistry
AP Environmental Science
AP Physics C: Mechanics
AP Physics C: Mechanics, Electricity and Magnetism
Bilingual Biology 200 *
Biology 200 *
Biology 300
Biology 400
Biology II: Research Questions in Biology
Chemistry 300
Chemistry 400
Earth Science 200**
Electricity & Electronics*
Physical Science 200*
Physical Science 300
Physics 300
Physics 400
Research Topics in Earth Science
*SOUTH CAMPUS ONLY
**NORTH CAMPUS ONLY
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Science Department Sequence
Standard Sequence
Freshman Year
Biology
(Honors) 400
Optional Sequence
Sophomore Year
Junior Year
Physics
(Honors) 400
Chemistry
(Honors) 400
Senior Year
* Anatomy &
Physiology
* AP Science
Course
Biology
300
Chemistry
300
Physics
300
* Bio II
Research
Questions in
Biology
* Research
Topics in Earth
Science
Physical Science
300
Chemistry
300
Physics
300
Alternate Pathway (North Only)
Earth Science
200
Physical Science 300
Biology
300
or
Chemistry 300
Alternate Pathway (South Only)
Biology
200
Physical Science
200
Chemistry
300
* Students may enroll in elective or AP science courses as Juniors if they are concurrently enrolled in Physics.
All AP courses and science electives require a recommendation from the student’s most recent science instructor.
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BILINGUAL BIOLOGY 200
(SOUTH CAMPUS ONLY) Credit: 1 unit
Eligible Grade Level: 9, 10, 11, 12
Prerequisites: Students are enrolled in this course by special selection.
Bilingual Biology 200 is an introductory course in the life sciences. The core topics covered in Biology 200 are: the
scientific method, bacteria and viruses, ecology, cell theory, evolution, heredity and classification. This bilingual
course utilizes modified materials and activities for students who are not proficient in English. The course does not
minimize the content requirements for a science course, but the curriculum includes support for language
acquisition, science reading and quantitative reasoning. In addition, this course builds vocabulary and content
concepts in both Spanish and English. The curriculum is organized at a slower pace which is conducive to the
success of assigned students. This course is co-taught by a science teacher and bilingual teacher. Student materials
are both in Spanish and English. Laboratory work is an integral and required part of the course.
BIOLOGY 200
(SOUTH CAMPUS ONLY) Credit: 1 unit
Eligible Grade Level: 9, 10, 11, 12
Prerequisites: Students are enrolled in this course by special selection.
Biology 200 is an introductory course in the life sciences. The core topics covered in Biology 200 are: the scientific
method, bacteria and viruses, ecology, cell theory, evolution, heredity and classification. The 200 level utilizes
modified materials and activities. The course does not minimize the content requirements for a science course, but
the curriculum includes support for science reading and quantitative reasoning. The curriculum is organized at a
slower pace which is conducive to the success of assigned students. Laboratory work is an integral and required
part of the course.
Credit: 1 unit
BIOLOGY 300
Eligible Grade Level: 9, 10, 11, 12
Prerequisites: Recommendation of Junior High science teacher and special placement by
Science Department Chair
Biology 300 is an introductory course in the life sciences. This course is designed to be a college preparatory
course. The core topics covered in Biology 300 are: the scientific method, ecology, cell theory, evolution, heredity
and classification. Laboratory work is an integral and required part of the course.
Credit: 1 unit
BIOLOGY 400 HONORS
Eligible Grade Level: 9, 10, 11, 12
Grade Weighted
Prerequisites: Recommendation of Junior High science teacher and special placement by
Science Department Chair
Biology 400 is an accelerated introductory course in the life sciences. This course is designed to be a college
preparatory course and is intended to prepare students for future 400 (honors) level classes, advanced science classes
and college level biology. The core topics covered in Biology 400 are: animal and plant biology, ecology, genetics,
and evolution. Biology 400 provides a challenging learning environment in which the curriculum is organized at a
more rigorous pace conducive to the success of assigned students. Laboratory work is an integral and required part
of the course and is highly analytical in nature.
Credit: 1 unit
BIOLOGY II: RESEARCH QUESTIONS IN BIOLOGY
Eligible Grade Level: 11, 12
Prerequisites: Completion of Biology and Chemistry. Completion of/or concurrent enrollment
in Physics.
Biology II: Research Questions in Biology provides students with an opportunity to study new emerging issues in
the biological sciences in a challenging learning environment. The course requires students to work individually and
collaboratively to develop an understanding of the nature of science in order to answer biological questions dealing
with genetic engineering, forensic science, human health and environmental action among others. Biology II:
Research Questions in Biology is a fourth year elective science option that provides a rigorous learning environment
designed for college preparation. The course uses a student-centered instructional approach, with students using
various technological tools to facilitate the problem-solving process. Real-world experiences provide authentic
learning opportunities for students. Laboratory work is an integral and required part of the course and is highly
analytical in nature.
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Credit: 1 unit
ANATOMY AND PHYSIOLOGY
Eligible Grade Level: 11, 12
Prerequisites: Completion of Biology, Chemistry. Completion of/ or concurrent enrollment in
Physics.
Anatomy and Physiology is a fourth year elective science option that provides a challenging learning environment
designed for college preparation. This course involves a detailed study of the structures and functions of major body
systems, and is intended to prepare students for collegiate science classes. College level materials are used. The core
topics covered in Anatomy and Physiology are: anatomical terminology, biochemistry, cytology, histology and body
systems such as the skeletal, nervous, circulatory, endocrine, respiratory, digestive, urinary, and reproductive
systems. Anatomy and Physiology provides a challenging learning environment in which the curriculum is
organized at a more rigorous pace. Laboratory work is an integral and required part of the course. The course
requires that students conduct physiological experiments and that anatomical study is aided by detailed dissection of
a laboratory mammal.
Credit: 1 unit
AP BIOLOGY
Eligible Grade Level: 11, 12
Grade Weighted
Prerequisites: Completion of Biology and Chemistry with a grade of “B” or better and
completion of/or concurrent enrollment in Physics. Recommendation by a current science
teacher is required.
AP Biology is designed to meet the objectives of a first-year college general biology course. College level materials
are used and the curriculum is established by the National College Board. The core topics covered in AP Biology
are: molecular biology, plant and animal biology, anatomy and physiology, genetics, ecology, and evolution.
Preparatory work for this course will be assigned for students to complete during the summer prior to the school
year of enrollment. Laboratory work is an integral and required part of the course and is highly analytical in nature.
Students should have an interest in the sciences along with a well-established work ethic for success in this
college level course. AP Biology prepares the student to write, in May, a college level Examination of the
National Advanced Placement Program (AP Biology). Success on this exam may entitle the student to college
credit, advanced college placement, or both.
Credit: 1 unit
AP ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE
Eligible Grade Level: 10, 11, 12
Grade Weighted
Prerequisites: Completion of/or concurrent enrollment in Physics and Advanced Algebra
Trigonometry. Sophomores concurrently enrolled in Chemistry 400 may be enrolled upon
department chair approval. Recommendation by a current science teacher is required.
AP Environmental Science is designed to meet the objectives of a one semester introductory college course in
environmental science. College level materials are used and the curriculum is established by the National College
Board. The goal of the course is to provide students with the scientific principles, concepts, and methodologies
required to understand the interrelationships of the natural world, to identify and analyze environmental problems
both natural and human-made, to evaluate the relative risks associated with these problems, and to examine
alternative solutions for resolving or preventing them. Environmental science is an interdisciplinary course;
embracing a wide variety of topics from different areas of study, yet is built around several major unifying ideas.
The themes that provide the foundation for the structure of the AP Environmental Science course are: 1. Science is a
process. 2. Energy conversions underlie all ecological processes. 3. The Earth itself is one interconnected system. 4.
Humans alter natural systems. 5. Environmental problems have a cultural and social context. 6. Human survival
depends on developing practices that will achieve sustainable systems. Field experiences and laboratory work are an
integral and required part of the course and are highly analytical in nature.
Students should have an interest in the sciences along with a well-established work ethic for success in this
college level course. AP Environmental Science prepares the student to write, in May, a college level
Examination of the National Advanced Placement Program (AP Environmental Science). Success on this
exam may entitle the student to college credit, advanced college placement, or both.
Credit: 1 unit
EARTH SCIENCE 200
(NORTH CAMPUS ONLY)
Eligible Grade Level: 9, 10, 11, 12
Prerequisites: Students are enrolled in this course by special selection.
Earth Science 200 is an introductory course in the physical sciences. The core topics covered in Earth Science 200
are: geology, meteorology, astronomy. The 200 level utilizes modified materials and activities. The course does not
minimize the content requirements for a science course, but the curriculum includes support for science reading and
quantitative reasoning. The curriculum is organized at a slower pace which is conducive to the success of assigned
students. Laboratory work is an integral and required part of the course.
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Credit: 1 unit
RESEARCH TOPICS IN EARTH SCIENCE
Eligible Grade Level: 12
Prerequisites: Completion of Biology, Chemistry and Physics
Research Topics in Earth Science is a technology based research and data driven course that provides students with
an opportunity to study earth system science. Earth as a system consists of geosphere, hydrosphere, atmosphere, and
biosphere. Scientific disciplines that are traditionally grouped into the earth sciences are geology, meteorology,
astronomy, and oceanography.
Research Topics in Earth Science is a fourth year elective science option that provides a challenging learning
environment designed for college preparation. The core topics covered in Research Topics in Earth Science are:
natural resources, fossil record, natural disasters, climate change and astronomy. Research skills developed in this
class will prepare students for college work. Course work will require students to collect, organize, and analyze
information to achieve a fuller understanding of the planet. Students will conduct research in the classroom, the
laboratory, as well as in the field.
PHYSICAL SCIENCE 200
(SOUTH CAMPUS ONLY) Credit: 1 unit
Eligible Grade Level: 10, 11, 12
Prerequisites: Students are enrolled in this course by special selection.
Physical Science 200 is an introductory course in the physical sciences. The core chemistry and physics topics
covered in Physical Science 200 are: the scientific method, measurement, properties of matter, acids and bases,
energy, forces, motion, sound, and light. The 200 level utilizes modified materials and activities. The course does
not minimize the content requirements for a science course, but the curriculum includes support for science reading
and quantitative reasoning. The curriculum is organized at a slower pace which is conducive to the success of
assigned students. Laboratory work is an integral and required part of the course.
Credit: 1 unit
PHYSICAL SCIENCE 300
Eligible Grade Level: 10, 11, 12
Prerequisites: Completion of Biology and completion of Math I.
Physical Science 300 is an introductory course in the physical sciences. The core chemistry and physics topics
covered in Physical Science 300 are: the scientific method, measurement, properties of matter, chemical reactions,
energy, forces, and motion. The Physical Science 300 curriculum is designed to prepare students for Chemistry 300
and Physics 300. Laboratory work is an integral and required part of the course.
Credit: 1 unit
CHEMISTRY 300
Eligible Grade Level: 10, 11, 12
Prerequisites: Completion of Biology and completion of Math I with a grade of “C” or better.
Chemistry 300 is an introductory chemistry course that meets the District 99 Physical Science graduation
requirement. This course is designed to be a college preparatory course. The core topics covered in Chemistry 300
are: dimensional analysis, matter, gas laws, stoichiometry, the mole, periodicity, reaction types, solutions,
thermochemistry, and organic chemistry. Laboratory work is an integral and required part of the course and is
highly analytical in nature.
Credit: 1 unit
CHEMISTRY 400 HONORS
Eligible Grade Level: 10, 11, 12
Grade Weighted
Prerequisites: Completion of Biology 300 /400 with a grade of “B” or better and completion of
Math I with a grade of an “A”.
Chemistry 400 is an accelerated introductory chemistry course that meets the District 99 Physical Science
graduation requirement. This investigative course is designed to be a college preparatory course and is intended to
prepare students for future 400(honors) level and advanced science classes and college level chemistry. The core
topics covered in Chemistry 400 are: the nature science, the mole, chemical reactions, stoichiometry, kinetic
molecular theory, solutions, thermodynamics, equilibrium, and acids & bases. Chemistry 400 provides a
challenging learning environment in which the curriculum is organized at a more rigorous pace conducive to the
success of assigned students. The course stresses the inquiry method which aids students in discovering
fundamental principles and uses the mathematics needed for college chemistry and other related fields. Laboratory
work is an integral and required part of the course and is highly analytical in nature.
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Credit: 1 unit
AP CHEMISTRY
Eligible Grade Level: 11, 12
Grade Weighted
Prerequisites: Completion of Chemistry 400 with a grade of “B” or better and completion
of/or concurrent enrollment in Physics. Recommendation by a current science teacher is
required.
AP Chemistry is designed to meet the objectives of a first-year college general chemistry course. College level
materials are used and the curriculum is established by the National College Board. Preparatory work for this course
will be assigned for students to complete during the summer prior to the school year in which they are enrolled in
this course. Laboratory work is an integral and required part of the course and is highly analytical in nature.
Students should have an interest in the sciences along with a well-established work ethic for success in this
college level course. AP Chemistry prepares the student to write, in May, a college level Examination of the
National Advanced Placement Program (AP Chemistry). Success on this exam may entitle the student to
college credit, advanced college placement, or both.
ELECTRICITY/ELECTRONICS
(SOUTH CAMPUS ONLY) Credit: 1 unit
Eligible Grade Level: 10, 11, 12
Dual College Credit
Prerequisites: None
This course is geared towards all students, both college bound as well as those who will directly enter the world of
work, with an interest in Electricity and Electronics. The curriculum combines state-of-the art interactive,
multimedia instruction with hands-on experimentation. Students will use a variety of industrial-grade training
devices to gain a comprehensive, practical understanding of the following topics: Careers in Electricity and
Electronics, Direct and Alternating Current, Basic Wiring and Schematic Symbols, Semiconductor Devices and
Digital Logic Fundamentals.
† This course may earn Dual Credit at College of DuPage. Please refer to Page 6 of this Registration Guide.
Credit: 1 unit
PHYSICS 300
Eligible Grade Level: 11, 12
Prerequisites: Completion of Chemistry and Geometry. Completion of/or concurrent
enrollment in Advanced Algebra/Trigonometry.
Physics 300 is an introductory Physics course. This course is designed to be a college preparatory course. The core
topics covered in Physics 300 are: kinematics, dynamics, energy, and electricity. Laboratory work is an integral and
required part of the course and is highly analytical in nature.
Credit: 1 unit
PHYSICS 400 HONORS
Eligible Grade Level: 11, 12
Grade Weighted
Prerequisites: Completion of Chemistry. Completion of Advanced Algebra/Trigonometry 300
or concurrent enrollment in Advanced Algebra/Trigonometry 400 is required. Completion
of/or concurrent enrollment in Pre-Calculus 300/400 is strongly recommended.
Physics 400 is an accelerated introductory Physics course. This course is designed to be a college preparatory
course and is intended to give the student a sufficient background in classical physics and prepare students for
future 400(honors) level and advanced science classes and college level physics. The core topics covered in Physics
400 are: mechanics, energy, and waves. Physics 400 provides a challenging learning environment in which the
curriculum is organized at a more rigorous pace conducive to the success of assigned students. Laboratory work is
an integral and required part of the course and is highly analytical in nature.
Credit: 1 unit
AP PHYSICS C: MECHANICS, ELECTRICITY AND MAGNETISM
Eligible Grade Level: 12
Grade Weighted
Prerequisites: Completion of Physics 400 and Chemistry 400 with a grade of “B” or better
recommended. Completion of/or concurrent enrollment in AB/BC Calculus is required.
Recommendation by a current science teacher is required.
AP Physics is designed to meet the objectives of a first-year college general physics course. College level materials
are used and the curriculum is established by the National College Board. This course in physics is designed to give
students an in-depth study of classical physics at the university level. A minimal amount of calculus will be provided
and used. Laboratory work is an integral and required part of the course and is highly analytical in nature.
Students should have an interest in the sciences along with a well-established work ethic for success in this
college level course. AP Physics prepares the student to write, in May, TWO college level Physics
Examinations of the National Advanced Placement Program (AP Physics C: Mechanics and AP Physics C:
Electricity and Magnetism). Success on this exam may entitle the student to college credit, advanced college
placement, or both.
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Credit: 1 unit
AP PHYSICS C: MECHANICS
Eligible Grade Level: 12
Grade Weighted
Prerequisites: Completion of Physics 400 or Physics 300. Recommendation by a current
science teacher is required.
AP Physics is designed to meet the objectives of a first semester college physics course. College level materials are
used and the curriculum is established by the National College Board. This course in physics is designed to give
students an in-depth study of mechanics at the university level. Extended time will be devoted in this course to the
study and practice of necessary mathematical techniques for college level physics. It is recommended that students
have an interest in the sciences along with a well-established work ethic. Laboratory work is an integral and required
part of the course and is highly analytical in nature.
Students should have an interest in the sciences along with a well-established work ethic for success in this
college level course. AP Physics prepares the student to write, in May, a college level Physics Examination of
the National Advanced Placement Program (AP Physics C: Mechanics). Success on this exam may entitle the
student to college credit, advanced college placement, or both.
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SOCIAL STUDIES
Our comprehensive Social Studies curriculum is vital to students as empathic, active participants in our
democratic society and the ever-changing global community. A depth of literacy in the social sciences
will enable learners to connect current events to historical antecedents in meaningful ways. Classroom
experiences facilitate the development of reasoning ability from concrete to abstract. These are key in
student development as informed, reflective decision-makers who are able to take and defend diverse
positions. Our continued focus on reading, writing and communication, supported by research,
interpersonal and technology skill development, promotes student success. Towards these goals we will
explore open-ended, essential questions throughout our curriculum.
The chart below shows the sequence for the Social Studies department. The electives are open to all
junior and senior students. Students are encouraged to read this guide carefully and to consult with their
Social Studies teachers and/or counselor for help in selecting courses appropriate to their interests, needs,
and abilities. All students are required to take one year of Global Connections, one year of United States
History, and one year of electives.
College-bound students should be aware that social studies or social science courses such as Sociology,
Economics, and American Government (Political Science) are required by colleges and universities for
many undergraduate degrees. Students should also consider that in order to prepare for professional
degrees, it is recommended that high school students take academically challenging social science and
history courses.
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SOCIAL STUDIES CORE COURSES
Credit: 1 unit
GLOBAL CONNECTIONS 300
Eligible Grade Level: 9
Prerequisites: None
Note: This course is the first requirement in the Social Studies sequence and is a prerequisite
for U.S. History.
Global Connections examines both the diversity and similarity among the world’s peoples and cultures with an
emphasis on the major civilizations of the past as well as nations and issues in the world today. A historical
perspective will be provided to illustrate major world events and movements, and students will develop a knowledge
and appreciation for the contributions of the many cultures to our global society. In addition, the course will
emphasize skill development, including reading, writing, communication, technology, and research. Global
Connections 300 is the first course of the social studies sequence and serves as the foundation for the social studies
experience in District 99.
Credit: 2 units
GLOBAL CONNECTIONS/ENGLISH & COMMUNICATION I:
INTERDISCIPLINARY (NORTH ONLY)
Eligible Grade Level: 9
Prerequisites: None
Note: This course meets the English I and Global Connections requirements for graduation.
Learning and practicing both the writing and reading process will be integral to the course. This two semester
course will develop skills in understanding literature, language and history. The course will provide students with
the opportunity for enrichment in reading, writing and research. Students will use writing as a way of clarifying
ideas, writing for different purposes and occasions, and demonstrating skill in the use of the conventions of standard
written and oral English. Students will examine both the diversity and similarity among the world’s peoples and
cultures with an emphasis on major civilizations of the past, as well as nations in the world today. Students will
engage in interdisciplinary experiences that will require them to draw connections between literature and history and
blend research, writing, reading and technological skills to demonstrate their own learning.
Credit: 1 unit
INTEGRATED STUDIES: GLOBAL CONNECTIONS (SOUTH ONLY)
Eligible Grade Level: 9
Prerequisites: Teacher and counselor recommendation
Dual enrollment in Integrated Studies: English and Communication I
The freshmen Integrated Studies Program is an early-intervention program designed to help students develop
analytic, reasoning, reading, writing and communication skills. This course incorporates a mixture of class
discussion, group work, individual assignments and writing assignments. Much of this course is designed so that
students may pursue learning objectives that are of interest to them. The curriculums for English and Social Studies
run parallel, and students are required to enroll in both Social Studies and English sections. There will be times
throughout the year when the English and Social Studies sections meet together or are working on the same project.
Support personnel are assigned to work closely with the students and staff. The overall goal of this earlyintervention program is to prepare students to transition back into mainstream classes.
UNITED STATES HISTORY 300
Eligible Grade Level: 10
Credit: 1 unit
Prerequisites: Global Connections
NOTE: This course satisfies the graduation requirements in U.S. History and Federal
and State Constitutions.
Credit: 1 unit
United States History offers students an opportunity to explore essential themes that reappear throughout American
History such as the growth of national unity and the development of democratic institutions. The course stresses
cause and effect relationships in its analysis of the events and people that have shaped our nation. Considerable time
is devoted to the development of basic participatory learning skills such as reading, writing, speaking, listening, and
reasoning.
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Credit: 1 unit
INTEGRATED STUDIES: UNITED STATES HISTORY (SOUTH ONLY)
Eligible Grade Level: 109
Prerequisites: Teacher and Counselor Recommendation
Dual Enrollment in Integrated Studies: English and Communication II
The Integrated Studies Program is an early-intervention program designed to assist students who have been
identified by teachers, counselors, and deans as having difficulty in adjusting to the demands of secondary
classroom-learning situations. The program is designed to help each student to develop basic reading and writing
skills, to learn more about American society, to develop positive attitudes toward self and society, and to earn
English and Social Studies credit toward graduation. The curriculums for English and Social Studies run parallel,
and students are required to enroll in both the Social Studies and English sections. In both the sophomore and junior
years, teachers modify the curriculum, adjusting instructional materials and teaching methods. Support personnel
are assigned to work closely with the students and staff. The goal of this early-intervention program is to prepare
students to transition back into the mainstream elective program for senior year.
Credit:1 unit
AP UNITED STATES HISTORY
Grade Weighted
Eligible Grade Level: 10, 11, 12
Prerequisites: Global Connections
AP United States History has been designed as an accessibly rigorous and challenging experience for those students
who are interested in the analysis of the American past as a vehicle to: (1) develop their reading, writing speaking
skills; (2) improve their ability to interpret U.S. History. To that end, students will engage in the following activities:
critical reading of college-level text materials; essays and seminar discussions that stimulate analytical reasoning. In
addition, this course is designed to prepare students to take the Advanced Placement Test, and will provide
opportunities to practice answering all types of questions on that test. Finally, this class emphasizes the modes of
inquiry and patterns of activity that students might encounter in a college classroom. This course can fulfill the U.S.
History, Federal and State graduation requirements or may be taken for elective credit.
SOCIAL STUDIES ELECTIVE OFFERINGS
Prerequisites for the social studies elective courses are: 1) junior or senior standing, 2) completion of Global
Connections, and US History. The third graduation requirement in social studies is met by taking two semesters of
social studies elective courses.
HISTORY ELECTIVES
Credit:1/2 unit
ANCIENT AND MEDIEVAL HISTORY
Eligible Grade Level: 11, 12
Prerequisites: See above
Ancient and Medieval History is designed for the college-bound student who has a serious interest in history.
Students analyze a wide variety of written materials, view and discuss the historical veracity of relevant films and
documentaries, and investigate how contemporary research is changing our perceptions of the ancient and medieval
past. The primary focus of this course is on the development of Western Civilization from the Neolithic Age to
1500 A.D, though non-western civilizations may be addressed at the discretion of the instructor.
Credit:1 unit
AP EUROPEAN HISTORY
Grade Weighted
Eligible Grade Level: 11, 12
Prerequisites: See above
This course has been designed as a rigorous, college- level experience for those students interested in the analysis of
European history as a vehicle to further their reading, writing, and speaking skills; and improving their
understanding of European History. Students will read challenging, analytical text materials that examine the
political, intellectual, social and economic history of modern Europe. They will also be asked to respond in written
and oral form to questions that require an analytical perspective. Finally, students will develop their reasoning skills
and will practice responding to Advanced Placement level essay and objective questions. Semester 1 topics include
the philosophical and geographical foundations of modern Europe, the West in transition (Renaissance and
Reformation), the birth of the modern state, and the Enlightenment and its consequences. Semester 2 topics include
revolution in the arts and politics, industrialization and the middle class, liberalism and nationalism, internationalism
and the twentieth century.
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Credit: 1/2 unit
MODERN WORLD HISTORY
Eligible Grade Level: 11, 12
Prerequisites: See above
Modern World History is designed for the college-bound student who has an interest in the history of the modern
world. The course is primarily a 20th century history course. Students will analyze a variety of written material and
film to investigate historical and modern perceptions of the past. The course will cover conflict and change in the
20th century and end with an analysis of challenges facing the world today. The history and perspectives of nonWestern culture will be examined throughout this course at the discretion of the instructor.
SOCIAL STUDIES ELECTIVES
Credit:1/2 unit
AMERICAN GOVERNMENT
Eligible Grade Level: 11, 12
American Government is the study of how we decide to govern our actions in a society. Students will become aware
of government’s possibilities as well as its limitations from the perspective of sharply opposed points of view. The
course strives to develop socially responsible and skilled citizens whose participation can affect public policy. Since
democracy is government “by the people,” survival of the American system depends upon an active, well-informed,
enlightened citizenry. Emphasis will be placed on analyzing current events, clarifying controversial views on the
political spectrum, and developing meaningful connections to government. Topics include: foundations of
democracy, constitutionalism, political parties and ideologies, presidential powers, campaigns, elections and voting
behavior, congressional decision making, interest groups, judicial case law and the changing role of the 21st century
American citizen.
Credit:1/2 unit
CONTEMPORARY AMERICAN ISSUES
Eligible Grade Level: 11, 12
Education should impart the skills needed for intelligent study and orderly resolution of the problems in a
democratic society. Citizens must be able to think critically and rationally about issues of broad public concern.
Students need to study issues upon which there is disagreement and to practice analyzing problems, gathering and
organizing facts, discriminating between fact and opinion, discussing differing viewpoints and drawing tentative
conclusions. This course attempts to examine current topics and issues in this manner. Possible topics of study may
include but are not limited to: Poverty in America, Criminal Justice, Ethics in Government, Economic Issues,
Environmental Issues, Technology and the World of Work, and Conflict Resolution in the Middle East.
Credit:1/2 unit
ESSENTIALS OF GEOGRAPHY
Eligible Grade Level: 11, 12
Geography is a field of study that deals with earth and all life on it. Essentials of Geography is an introduction to the
topics of geographic inquiry which will enable students to better understand the world in which they live. Topics
will include an overview of physical geography and an in-depth study of the cultural, political and economic aspects
of the Western world. An emphasis will be put on Globalization.
Credit:1/2 unit
ISSUES IN WORLD CULTURAL GEOGRAPHY
Eligible Grade Level: 11, 12
World Cultural Geography is a field of study that will explore global connections and the interaction between
regions. Students examine cultural, political, economic and environmental issues. Students will seek to develop an
understanding of the interdependence of places and regions in a globalizing world.
MULTICULTURAL STUDIES IN AMERICAN SOCIETY * (Pending Board Approval) Credit:1/2 unit
Eligible Grade Level: 11, 12
This course offers an integrative and comprehensive approach to the experiences of various ethnic groups in the
United States. Ethnic groups to be considered include, but are not limited to, African-Americans, Latino-Americans,
Asian-Americans, Native-Americans, and White-Americans. Students will examine each group historically, tracing
immigration and migration patterns and their impact on political movements, economic developments, and other
related topics. Using this historical knowledge, students will critically examine contemporary issues related to each
of these ethnic groups. Students will analyze historical and contemporary racial and ethnic differences on the level
of both macro institutions (such as law, economy, and government) and microstructures (such as everyday living
and individual experience). Topics will be addressed from a factual, conceptual, and values level. Through critical
readings, class discussion, projects, and films, students will have opportunities to develop a solid intercultural
foundation for understanding race and cultural diversity in the United States.
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Credit:1/2 unit
AP MACRO ECONOMICS (NORTH ONLY)
Grade Weighted
Eligible Grade Level: 11, 12
Economics addresses the fundamental problem of scarcity or the study of how society manages unlimited wants and
needs with limited resources. More specifically, the class will cover topics on the entire United States economy,
such as inflation, unemployment, productivity, government spending and taxation, control of the money supply by
the Federal Reserve, and exchange rates. Units of study include basic economic concepts, the financial sector,
aggregate supply and demand, measurement of economic performance, fiscal policy, monetary policy and global
economics. A personal online investing portfolio, along with a competitive, team-based Stock Market Game, will
be integrated into the curriculum.
Credit: 1/2 unit
AP MICRO ECONOMICS (SOUTH ONLY)
Grade Weighted
Eligible Grade Level: 11, 12
AP Microeconomics introduces students to the social science discipline once described as the “dismal science.”
Concerned with the efficient utilization and management of limited productive resources, for the purpose of
attaining the maximum satisfaction of human material wants, AP Microeconomics studies basic economic
principles and concepts. Specific units of study will include production possibility curves, the nature and function of
product markets, the role of supply and demand in the marketplace, efficiency, equity, and the role of government,
measurement of economic performance, national income and price determination, international economics and
growth, and fiscal and monetary policy. This course is designed to prepare students to take the Advanced Placement
Microeconomics examination.
Credit:1/2 unit
LAW IN AMERICAN SOCIETY
Eligible Grade Level: 11, 12
The study of law can be an important means of developing a student’s sense of justice and his or her understanding
of the political values of our nation. Street law and the practical application of law are studied. There are five units
of study: Constitution and Supreme Court, School and Juvenile law, Criminal law, Civil law and Family law. The
class examines landmark Supreme Court decisions. Students analyze first amendment issues in our schools. In
addition, professionals in law-related careers speak with students. This course is an excellent way for students to
develop their reading, writing, and analytical skills.
Credit:1/2 unit
PERSONAL ECONOMICS
Eligible Grade Level: 11, 12
This class is designed to help students achieve financial literacy in personal finance through a practical, real-world
approach. This course meets the State of Illinois Consumer Education requirement and a social studies requirement
for graduation. The purpose of this course is to address the role of the consumer in a world economy, not only as an
individual, but as a family and societal member.
Credit:1/2 unit
AP U.S. GOVERNMENT AND POLITICS
Grade Weighted
Eligible Grade Level: 11, 12
The U.S. Government and Politics course is designed to prepare students to take the U.S. Government and Politics
Advanced Placement Exam. The course will provide students with experiences examining various institutions,
groups, beliefs, and ideas that encompass U.S. politics. Students will become familiar with the theoretical
perspectives and the history of U.S. politics along with the various ways governmental decisions are made and how
those outcomes affect society. The course includes both the study of general concepts used to interpret U.S. politics,
but also analyzes the ties between the various branches of the national government and political parties, interest
groups, public opinion, and the media. The course focuses on how government decisions are made, and what some
of the causes and effects of such decisions can be. The study of the American political system will be conducted
through an integration of intensive writing, reading, class discussion, group work, investigative research, and
authentic political experiences.
Credit:1/2 unit
UNITED STATES FOREIGN POLICY
Eligible Grade Level: 11, 12
This course is designed to help students understand the role the United States plays in the world. Students will be
able to identify U.S. foreign policy goals and recognize how these goals have changed throughout the past century.
Additionally, students will discuss the use of diplomacy, economics, and the military in pursuit of U.S. interests
worldwide.
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BEHAVIORAL SCIENCE ELECTIVES
Credit:1/2 unit
ANTHROPOLOGY
Eligible Grade Level: 11, 12
Anthropology is the study of human existence including its history, biological basis, language, political and
economic systems and culture. We explore questions such as: Where do we come from and why are we here? How
do we make sense of each other? What is beautiful and how do we decide? Students will read a variety of texts and
watch a variety of video clips to explore these questions. They will also draw from their own experiences and
understandings to inform our exploration of these questions.
Credit:1/2 unit
PSYCHOLOGY
Eligible Grade Level: 11, 12
This course is an introductory survey course designed to help the student understand many of the ways human
beings act, think, and react to each other. Studying psychology will help students understand contemporary
psychological perspectives, psychological research, biology and behavior, human growth and development, learning
and mental wellness and illness. In addition to the content of psychology, students will consider psychological
issues that face our society. Students may take this course prior to taking AP Psychology.
Credit:1/2 unit
AP PSYCHOLOGY
Grade Weighted
Eligible Grade Level: 11, 12
AP Psychology is designed to prepare students to take and have success on the AP Psychology exam. It is a
rigorous college level introduction to the systematic and scientific study of the behavior and mental process of
human beings and other animals. Students are exposed to the psychological facts, principles, and phenomena
associated with each of the major subfields within psychology. Students also learn about the ethics and methods
psychologists use in their science and practice.
Credit:1/2 unit
SOCIOLOGY
Eligible Grade Level: 11, 12
Sociology is the study of human societies and of human behavior in social settings. Sociology establishes criteria for
analyzing social problems and the organization of social institutions such as the family, our educational system, our
economic and political systems. Sociology closely examines issues related to racial, ethnic and socioeconomic
stratification. Sociology examines the process of socialization by studying various social forces that influence our
individual identity. Units have been created with the hope that generalizations about human behavior can be made
thus allowing students to better understand their role in society and how improvements in social conditions can be
made.
Credit:1/2 unit
SOCIOLOGY OF GENDER
Eligible Grade Level: 11, 12
Through the use of in-depth readings and activities, discussion, and media presentations, this course helps students
develop a sophisticated understanding of the role of sex and gender in contemporary America. Some of the topics
include: male and female differences, sex role socialization and identity, male/female status from a historical and
worldwide perspective, masculinity and the men’s movement, the challenges facing the American family, and
current economic and social issues. Particular emphasis will be placed on opposing viewpoints regarding work,
family and social change.
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SPECIAL SERVICES
A broad spectrum of instructional programs, classes and support services is offered to students having unique
learning needs.
SPECIAL EDUCATION PROGRAMS
Community High School District 99 is a member of SASED (School Association for Special Education in
DuPage County). Special education involvement is directed through the local school attendance area.
Procedures for referral and placement are directed by the Counseling and Student Support Services
Department. District 99, and its associated districts in SASED, provides programs for students ages 3 through
21.
Some of the programs offered in the local high schools and/or through SASED, the special education
cooperative, are for students eligible as:
Intellectually Impaired
Learning Disabled
Hearing Impaired
Emotionally Disabled
Speech & Language Impaired
Other Health Impaired
Orthopedically Impaired
Visually Impaired
Deaf-Blind
Autistic
Multiple Disabilities
Traumatic Brain Injured
Placement into any programs/courses listed below is determined at an Eligibility Review where an Individual
Education Plan (IEP) is developed to address the need for more intensive instruction.
Credit:
1/4 unit per semester
LEARNING RESOURCE CENTER (LRC)
Eligible Grade Level: 9, 10, 11, 12
Students enrolled in this course have been identified for special education services due to difficulties in the learning
process. LRC is a structured support period for students to receive monitoring and personalized assistance in order
to meet IEP goals, course and district outcomes, and state standards. A portion of this period is also devoted to
developing fluency and comprehension in reading, math, and writing to meet individual academic needs.
Credit:
Variable
INSTRUCTIONAL PROGRAMS
Eligible Grade Level: 9, 10, 11, 12
Students enrolled in these programs have been identified for special education services due to learning, behavioral,
physical, and/or intellectual impairments. Support personnel are assigned to work with students and staff as needed.
Community based curricula as well as vocational and transition services are all available to students as appropriate.
Courses offered in these programs fulfill graduation requirements.
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TECHNOLOGY CENTER OF DUPAGE (TCD)
Prerequisites: None
Eligible Grade Level: 11, 12
Credit: 3 units per year
Technology Center of DuPage prepares juniors and seniors for college and a career through twenty advanced
career and technical education electives. It is operated by joint agreement among 14 member high school districts,
including District #. Students have the opportunity to earn both high school and college credit, obtain available
industry certifications and prepare for post-secondary education in that field. Recognized as one of the
outstanding career and technical education (CTE) programs in the nation, Technology Center of DuPage offers 22
programs within 13 Career Clusters. TCD is fully accredited by the North Central Association Commission on
Accreditation and School Improvement (NA-CASI, a division of AdvancED).
TCD PROGRAMS
Agriculture, Food & Natural Resources
Horticulture/Power Equipment Technology
Architecture & Construction
Civil Engineering & Architecture (CEA-PLTW)
Construction Trades
Heating, Ventilation, A/C & Refrigeration
Residential Wiring
Arts, A-V Technology & Communications
Multimedia & Television Production
Business & Administration
Data Entry Occupations
Office Systems Technology
Education and Training
Early Childhood Education & Care
Health Science
Nursing Assistant Training Program
Medical Terminology & Health Care Careers
Hospitality and Tourism
Culinary, Pastry Arts & Hospitality Management
Human Services
Cosmetology
Information Technology
Computer Information Systems & Game Design
Law, Public Safety, Corrections & Security
Criminal Justice
Fire Science (including EMT)
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Manufacturing
Precision Machining
Welding
Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics (STEM)
Electronics Technology
Pathway to Engineering Courses






Introduction to Engineering Design (IED)
Principles of Engineering (POE)
Civil Engineering & Architecture (CEA)
Computer Integrated Manufacturing (CIM)
Digital Electronics (DE)
Engineering Design & Development (EDD)
Pre-requisite: one other Pathway to Engineering course
Transportation and Logistics
Auto Body Repair & Refinishing
Automotive Technology
TCD programs are full-year courses open to juniors and seniors who have demonstrated serious interest in a goaloriented vocation. Students who enroll will attend for 2 1/2 hours during the morning or afternoon each day.
Students will continue to take their other courses at North or South High Schools. Bus transportation will be
provided to and from the TCD Center in Addison. Program costs for TCD courses have an approximate range
from $100-$400 for each school year of enrollment. Please check the TCD website for specific program fees.
Enrollment in a TCD program is a commitment by the student to regularly attend TCD. For each student attending
Technology Center of DuPage, District 99 must pay tuition. Therefore, students are not permitted to drop out of a
TCD Program. A confirmation letter will be mailed home in June as a reminder of the student’s Technology Center
of DuPage registration.
NOTICE ON NONDISCRIMINATION
It is the policy of the Technology Center of DuPage not to discriminate in its educational programs, activities or
employment policies with regard to race, sex, national origin or handicap.
Please visit www.tcdupage.org for complete curriculum and fee information.
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WORLD LANGUAGE
The World Language Department offers sequential courses in French, German, and Spanish as well as courses in
English as a Second Language. The study of a foreign language may be elected to meet college entrance
requirements, to enrich a person’s understanding and appreciation of another culture, to meet career goals, or for
travel purposes. Some universities waive foreign language graduation requirements for students who have
completed a four year sequence in high school. It is recommended that students have demonstrated proficiency and
have a teacher recommendation to continue to the next level. Students who have had foreign language experience
prior to entering high school are placed at the appropriate level of high school language based primarily on the
recommendation of their eighth grade foreign language teacher.
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WORLD LANGUAGE COURSE SEQUENCE
Spanish III
Honors
Spanish I
French I
German I
AP Spanish
Spanish II
Spanish V
Spanish III
Spanish IV
French III
Honors
AP French
French II
French V
French III
French IV
German III
Honors
AP German
German II
German V
German III
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German IV
Credit: 1 unit
FRENCH I
Eligible Grade Level: 9, 10, 11, 12
Prerequisites: None
Students communicate information related to their daily life and activities. Students will be able to communicate
using one word responses and simple sentences in present, past, and future time. Students become familiar with the
cultures of the French-speaking world through readings, films, and projects.
Credit: 1 unit
FRENCH II
Eligible Grade Level: 9, 10, 11, 12
Prerequisites: Proficiency in French I
Building on skills acquired in Level I, French II students continue to communicate about their lives as well as to
communicate their basic needs as if in the foreign culture. Longer and more complex sentences incorporating a
variety of tenses will be used by the teacher and students. Cultural information related to the French-speaking
world is integrated throughout the course using the textbook, films, projects, and presentations.
Credit: 1 unit
FRENCH III
Eligible Grade Level: 10, 11, 12
Prerequisites: Proficiency in French II
French III is designed to engage students in increasingly advanced skill development through authentic materials.
Students learn, think critically, and express themselves about a variety of topics in the French language. Students
study art, geography of the French-speaking world, contemporary literature and culture in the target language. The
class is conducted extensively in French so that students may maximize listening and speaking skills. Technology
will be used to expose students to the Franco phone world.
Credit: 1 unit
FRENCH III HONORS
Eligible Grade Level: 9, 10, 11, 12
Grade Weighted
Prerequisites: Proficiency in French II
The sequential core material for this course is the same as French III. The rigor is accelerated; the breadth and
scope of the coverage is expanded, and some material is added to challenge the capabilities of the more able
students. The course is conducted extensively in French so that students may maximize listening and speaking
skills. Students will continue to develop their writing skills. Challenging reading materials such as short stories,
books, magazines, and online articles will be used to increase reading proficiency.
Credit: 1 unit
FRENCH IV
Eligible Grade Level: 10, 11, 12
Prerequisites: Proficiency in French III or III Honors
Students in French IV continue to improve all communication skills. The student should be at ease with spoken and
written French. France’s history and literature, studied in chronological sequence, are the basis of study and
discussion. Vocabulary is enhanced through readings and films. Emphasis is on conversation, composition,
reading, and listening.
Credit: 1 unit
AP FRENCH
Eligible Grade Level: 10, 11, 12
Grade Weighted
Prerequisites: Proficiency in French III or French III Honors
AP French Language is intended for highly-motivated students who are interested in completing studies comparable
in content and in difficulty to courses in French composition and conversation at the college level. Students who
enroll in AP French Language should already have a good command of French grammar and vocabulary and have
competence in listening, reading, speaking, and writing. The class is conducted in French so as to maximize
listening and speaking skills. Technology will be used extensively throughout the year. This course includes
rigorous skill development in order to help students prepare for the Advanced Placement Examination.
Credit: 1 unit
FRENCH V
Eligible Grade Level: 11, 12
Grade Weighted
Prerequisites: Proficiency in French IV or AP French
In order to be successful, the student must assume the responsibility to be self-directed as much learning takes place
individually. The student will continue to improve all communication in French. He/she will initiate conversations
and participate extemporaneously, use the language to solve problems, state and support opinions, and express
abstract ideas. Students will apply these skills in continuing to study cultural topics and read literature. Technology
will be used extensively throughout the year.
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Credit: 1 unit
GERMAN I
Eligible Grade Level: 9, 10, 11, 12
Prerequisites: None
This course is an introduction to the language and culture of German-speaking countries. Students will learn basic
vocabulary, grammar forms, and German pronunciation through a variety of activities. Additionally, students learn
about some aspects of life in German-speaking countries, and compare the German culture to that of the U.S.
Credit: 1 unit
GERMAN II
Eligible Grade Level: 9, 10, 11, 12
Prerequisites: Proficiency in German I
Building on the skills acquired in Level I, German II students continue to communicate about their lives as well as
their basic needs as if in the foreign culture. Longer and more complex sentences incorporating a variety of tenses
will be used by teacher and students. Authentic cultural materials such as films, songs, and magazines are included.
Credit: 1 unit
GERMAN III
Eligible Grade Level: 10, 11, 12
Prerequisites: Proficiency in German II
Students will continue learning to listen, speak, and write in German. They will review the grammar principles
already learned, and continue to learn new ones. Students learn, think critically, and express themselves about a
variety of topics through the use of authentic materials. They will write short compositions in German related to the
topics of study. Cultural material will be presented through authentic visuals and audio materials.
Credit: 1 unit
GERMAN III HONORS
Eligible Grade Level: 10, 11, 12
Grade Weighted
Prerequisites: Proficiency in German II
The sequential core material for this course is the same as German III. Students will be exposed at a more in-depth
level to the same curriculum as the German III course. Some material may be added to challenge the capabilities of
the more able students. In order to be successful in this course, students should have a high level of proficiency in
the skills taught in level I and II.
Credit: 1 unit
GERMAN IV
Eligible Grade Level: 11, 12
Prerequisites: Proficiency in German III or III Honors
Students in German IV continue to improve all communication skills. Vocabulary will be increased through
various German reading materials, films, and audio sources. Students will hone their writing skills with short
essays based on current topics. A review of grammar is incorporated into every unit. By means of authentic
materials, students will become acquainted with great names in literature, music, art, philosophy, and science.
Credit: 1 unit
AP GERMAN
Eligible Grade Level: 11, 12
Grade Weighted
Prerequisites: Proficiency in German III or German III Honors
Students in AP German continue to improve all communication skills. Vocabulary will be increased through
various German reading materials, films, and audio sources. Students will hone their writing skills with short
essays based on current topics. A review of grammar is incorporated into every unit. By means of authentic
materials, students will become acquainted with great names in literature, music, art, philosophy, and science. This
course includes rigorous skill development in order to help students prepare for the Advanced Placement
Examination.
Credit: 1 unit
GERMAN V
Eligible Grade Level: 11, 12
Grade Weighted
Prerequisites: Proficiency in German IV or AP German
German V follows the same two-year rotating curriculum as German IV. Level V students will have some more
rigorous assignments and assessments to ensure improvement in reading, writing listening and speaking skills.
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Credit: 1 unit
SPANISH I
Eligible Grade Level: 9, 10, 11, 12
Prerequisites: None
This course serves as an introduction to the language and culture of the Spanish-speaking world. The four skills of
speaking, listening, reading, and writing in Spanish are included. Basic vocabulary and grammar are acquired
through a variety of activities that use the four skills. Cultural enrichment is added through readings, discussions,
multi-media, and projects.
Credit: 1 unit
SPANISH II
Eligible Grade Level: 9, 10, 11, 12
Prerequisites: Proficiency in Spanish I
Building on skills developed in Level I, Spanish II students continue to improve all communication skills; reading,
writing, listening, and speaking. Listening and speaking skills are developed through conversations and
presentations. Students use the language technology lab to build these skills. Students will be engaged in writing
more complex sentences and paragraphs and reading a variety of Spanish selections. Students will learn more about
the Spanish-speaking world through readings, films, and projects.
Credit: 1 unit
SPANISH III
Eligible Grade Level: 10, 11, 12
Prerequisites: Proficiency in Spanish II
Spanish III promotes the understanding and internalization of Spanish with a greater emphasis of the use of Spanish
in the classroom. Students are encouraged to combine their reading, speaking, listening, and writing skills through
natural contexts. Reading skills are fostered through the use of authentic texts. Speaking and listening skills are
enhanced through classroom conversations as well as use of audio supplements and the language technology lab.
Writing is further developed through compositions. Cultural perspectives, art, geography, and literature are
presented through readings, videos, and discussions. Students progressively recycle and integrate previous
knowledge in new situations.
Credit: 1 unit
SPANISH III HONORS
Eligible Grade Level: 10, 11, 12
Grade Weighted
Prerequisites: Proficiency in Spanish II
The sequential core material for this course is the same as Spanish III. The rigor is accelerated, the breadth and
scope of the coverage is expanded, and material is added to challenge the capabilities of the more able students.
The course is conducted extensively in Spanish in order to maximize listening and speaking skills. To be
successful, students should have a high level of proficiency in the skills taught in level I and II.
Credit: 1 unit
SPANISH IV
Eligible Grade Level: 11, 12
Prerequisites: Proficiency in Spanish III or III Honors
Spanish IV is a continuation course where the four skills introduced in Spanish I-III are enhanced. These four skills
involve listening, speaking, reading, and writing. Speaking skills are developed through conversation and
discussion between students and teacher. Students will read short stories and other authentic material to enhance
their appreciation of the culture, art, and history of Spanish speaking countries. Writing skills are developed
through writing original sentences, paragraphs, and papers. The language technology lab is used to further increase
students’ speaking and listening skills. This course is held mostly in Spanish.
Credit: 1 unit
AP SPANISH
Eligible Grade Level: 11, 12
Grade Weighted
Prerequisites: Proficiency in Spanish III or Spanish III Honors
AP Spanish is a continuation course where the four skills of listening, speaking, reading, writing introduced in
Spanish I-III are enhanced. Students will be reading many short stories and a short novel that will enhance their
appreciation of the culture, art, and history of different Spanish-speaking countries. Writing skills will be
developed through written exercises, answering questions, writing original sentences, paragraphs, and papers. The
language technology lab is used to further increase students’ speaking and listening skills. This course included
rigorous skill development in order to help students prepare for the Advanced Placement Examination. This course
is taught entirely in Spanish and the students are expected to communicate entirely in Spanish.
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Credit: 1 unit
SPANISH V
Eligible Grade Level: 11, 12
Grade Weighted
Prerequisites: Proficiency in Spanish IV or AP Spanish
Spanish V features an independent review of grammatical structure and verb tenses. Reading selections will
include- fables, poems, short stories, dramas, essays, and cultural selections. The entire class is held in Spanish.
Students will be enhancing and applying their language skills throughout the course through projects and
presentations related to cultural and historical topics as well as literature.
Credit: 1 unit
SPANISH FOR NATIVE SPEAKERS I
Eligible Grade Level: 9, 10, 11, 12
Prerequisites: The ability to speak and comprehend Spanish
This course is designed to meet the needs of those students who already know how to speak and understand
Spanish. Students will be provided the opportunity to develop and improve their skills in reading and writing
through the study of pertinent literary themes and the writing of journals and short passages. Topics in grammar,
culture and literature will be regular components of the course, as will the use of technology for writing, delivering
presentations and reinforcing grammatical structures.
Credit: 1 unit
SPANISH FOR NATIVE SPEAKERS II
Eligible Grade Level: 10, 11, 12
Prerequisites: Spanish for Native Speakers I
This course is designed to continue to meet the needs of those students who speak and understand Spanish. Students
will continue to develop their skills in Spanish with a focus on using proper grammar and spelling in writing tasks.
Topics in culture and literature will remain a focus of the course, as will the integration of technology. Students will
read a novel as a part of the course. They will also study the Aztecs and the geography and current events of the
Spanish-speaking world. The course is conducted almost entirely in Spanish and English as a second language
section.
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District 99 ELL Course Descriptions
English Language Learner/Bilingual Program Overview
Eligible Grade Levels: 9, 10, 11, 12
Prerequisite: ELL Teacher Recommended
The English Language Learner classes are designed for those students whose limited English proficiency precludes
their successful performance in the regular English curriculum. ELL classes are designed to improve speaking,
listening, reading, and writing skills of limited English speakers. Enrollment in this program includes a monitoring
of student progress in their regular classes and providing help and support where necessary. Students who speak
Spanish may qualify for Bilingual Biology or Bilingual Global Connections, offered on a rotating basis. Enrollment
in such coursework is determined by student profile and recommendation of the Bilingual teacher. (Bilingual South
Campus Only)
Credit: 1 Unit
ENGLISH LANGUAGE LEARNER ENGLISH I, II, III, IV
Eligible Grade Level: 9, 10, 11, 12
Prerequisite: ELL Teacher Recommended
These courses are designed for students whose limited English proficiency precludes their successful performance in
standard English classes. Students in these courses will develop their skills in listening, speaking, reading, and
writing English. Enrollment in these classes is based on a student profile and recommendation of the ELL staff and
high school counselor. Students who successfully complete ELL English will earn one regular English credit toward
graduation.
(Level I South Only)
Credit: 1 Unit
ENGLISH LANGUAGE LEARNER STUDY SKILLS
Eligible Grade Level: 9, 10, 11, 12
Prerequisites: ELL Teacher Recommended
This two semester course is designed to give students the opportunity to acquire, apply, and transfer new knowledge
and skills to all academic classes. During this course, students will specifically practice the application of reading
and writing. Throughout the year, students will work on learning reading strategies that can be used in all academic
classes; these strategies should make all students better and more effective readers. Some strategies included are
making connections, asking questions, visualizing, making inferences, determining the main idea, and synthesizing
information. In addition, throughout this course, students will also strive to become more competent writers and
readers.
Credit: 1 Unit
ENGLISH LANGUAGE LEARNER RESOURCE
Eligible Grade Level: 9, 10, 11, 12
Prerequisite: ELL Teacher Recommended
Students enrolled in ELL Resource have been identified as English Language Learners due to their level of English
proficiency. They have an opportunity for daily help with their academic courses; academic language is a focus.
Student grades are monitored, interventions are utilized and resource teachers communicate with students’ teachers
to facilitate learning. Most ELL students have a half period resource, but those with significant skills issues may be
enrolled in a full period resource.
Credit: 1 Unit
ENGLISH LANGUAGE LEARNER LIFESKILLS I, II
Eligible Grade Level: 9, 10, 11, 12
Prerequisite: ELL Teacher Recommended
This course is designed for beginners (Levels I and II) enrolled in the ELL program. Students will develop skills
with an emphasis on listening and speaking, but also include reading and writing. The content of the class focuses
on daily living/survival skills, academic/school skills, and content-related skills. Emphasis is primarily on
developing English language proficiency using a language experience approach. This course will provide students
with experiences that will serve as a foundation for additional opportunities within the standard academic
curriculum. (South Only)
Credit: 1 Unit
ENGLISH LANGUAGE LEARNER READING I, II
Eligible Grade Level: 9, 10, 11, 12
Prerequisite: ELL Teacher Recommended
In this course, beginning level ELL students learn a variety of reading strategies. This course focuses on providing
students with methods that can help make reading for the standard curriculum easier and more successful. In
addition to reading strategies, vocabulary recognition and acquisition skills are taught. They will read both fiction
and non-fiction materials appropriate for their proficiency level. Students enrolled in this course are also enrolled in
ELL English I or English II. (South Only)
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Credit: 1 Unit
BILINGUAL BIOLOGY 200
Eligible Grade Level: 9, 10, 11, 12
Prerequisites: ELL Teacher Recommended
Bilingual Biology 200 is an introduction to the biological sciences. It includes topics such as ecology, genetics,
botany, and zoology. The curriculum is designed primarily for the lower English proficient students who may have
difficulties in reading comprehension or math skills. However, the course does not minimize the content
requirements for science courses, but rather it uses materials, activities and a pace more conducive to the success of
assigned students. In addition, this course builds vocabulary and content concepts in both Spanish and English.
Student materials are both in Spanish and English. Laboratory work is an integral part of the course. (South Only)
Credit: 1 Unit
BILINGUAL GLOBAL CONNECTIONS 200
Eligible Grade Level: 9, 10, 11, 12
Prerequisites: ELL Teacher Recommended
This course fulfills the Global Connections requirement. It is designed to introduce students to most of the topics
addressed in Global Connections 300. The curriculum aims to provide students with reading comprehension
strategies, written and oral communication skills. This course does not minimize the content requirements but uses
materials in both Spanish and English in order to teach important global thematic concept, as well as build content
vocabulary in both English and Spanish. (South Only)
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3
3-D Design & Animation, 18, 22
A
A Cappella Choir, 38
A Cappella Choir Honors, 38
Accounting 1, 16
Acting I, 26
Acting II, 26
Acting III, 26
Advanced Individual Skill Sports,
55
Advanced Journalistic Writing,
26
Advanced Placement
Information, 7
Advanced Team Sports, 55
American Government, 69
Anatomy and Physiology, 62
Ancient & Medieval History, 68
Anthropology, 71
AP Art History, 43
AP Biology, 62
AP Calculus AB, 51
AP Calculus BC, 51
AP Chemistry, 64
AP Computer Science A, 17
AP English Language and
Compostion, 26
AP English Literature &
Composition, 27
AP Environmental Science, 62
AP European History 300, 68
AP French, 77
AP German, 78
AP Macro Economics (North
Only), 70
AP Micro Economics (South
Only), 70
AP Music Theory, 41
AP Physics C
Mechanics, 65
Mechanics/Electricity and
Magnetism, 64
AP Psychology, 71
AP Spanish, 79
AP Statistics, 52
AP Studio Art
2D Design (Computer Art), 44
2D Design (Design), 45
2D Design (Digital
Photography), 45
3D Design (Ceramics), 43
3D Design (Jewelry &
Metalwork), 47
Drawing and Painting, 46
AP U.S. Government & Politics,
70
AP U.S. History, 68
Architectural Drawing 1, 20
Architectural Drawing 1Honors,
20
Architectural Drawing 2, 21
Architectural Drawing 2 Honors,
21
B
Baking & Pastries * Pending
Board Approval, 19
Bilingual Biology 200, 61, 62, 82
Bilingual Global Connections 200,
82
Biology 300, 61
Biology 400, 61
Biology II
Research Questions in Biology,
61
Business Law, 16
C
Contemporary American Issues,
69
Cooperative Work Training
(CWT), 18
Course Repeats, 8
D
Dance Fitness, 55
Dance Techniques, 55
Design I, 44
Design II, 44
Design Studio, 44
Digital Music, 40
Digital Photography I, 45
Digital Photography II, 45
Digital Photography Studio, 45
Digital Tools and
Communication, 18
Discrete Mathmatics 300, 51
Drawing & Painting Studio, 46
Drawing and Painting I, 46
Drawing II, 46
Drawing III, 46
Driver Education, 58
Dual Credit, 8
E
Career & Technical Education, 14
Ceramics I, 43
Ceramics II, 43
Ceramics Studio, 43
Chemistry 300, 63
Chemistry 400 Honors, 63
Child Development, 19
Choral, 37
Co-Curricular (Select) Choral
Ensembles, 38, 39
College Algebra 300, 51
Computer Aided Drafting &
Design 1 (CADD 1), 21
Computer Art I, 43
Computer Art II, 44
Computer Art Studio, 44
Computer Science 1, 17
Computer Science 2, 18
Computer-Aided Drafting &
Design 2 (CADD 2), 21
Concert Band Brass/Woodwinds/Percussion,
39
Concert Choir, 37
Concert Orchestra, 38
Consumer Education, 16
Consumer Mathematics, 52
83
Early Bird Fitness, 55
Early Childhood Care * Pending
Board Approval, 19
Early Graduation, 8
Electricity/Electronics, 21, 64
ENGLISH AND
COMMUNICATION, 23
English and Communication I, 27
Integrated Studies, 27
English and Communication I
Honors, 27
English and Communication
I/Reading (READ 180), 28, 34
English and Communication II,
28
Integrated Studies, 28
English and Communication II
Honors, 28
English and Communication II
Skills, 28
English and Communication III,
28
English and Communication III
Skills, 29
English and Communication IV
Critical Lenses, 29
Cultural Transitions, 29
Dramatic Literature, 29
Effective Expression, 29
Humanities and Critical
Expression, 30
Journalistic Expression and
Media Literacy, 30
Literacy Expression, 30
Oral Expression, 30
Realms of Possibility, 31
Transformation and Triumph,
31
Voices from the Edge, 31
Writing for Broadcast
Expression, 31
Written Expression, 31
English Language Learner
English I, II, III, IV, 81
English Language Learner
Lifeskills I, II, 81
English Language Learner
Reading I, II, 81
English Language Learner
Resource, 81
English Language Learner Study
Skills, 81
Entrepreneurship, 16
Essentials of Geography, 69
F
Fashion Construction 1, 19
Fashion Construction 2, 19
Fashion Construction 3, 20
Fashion Merchandising, 16
Film Studies, 32
Fine Arts, 36
Fitness 1, 55
Fitness 2, 55
Forensics, 32
Foundations for Math 1, 50
French I, 77
French II, 77
French III, 77
French III Honors, 77
French IV, 77
French V, 77
Freshman Boys Choir, 37
Freshman Girls Choir, 37
G
German I, 78
German II, 78
German III, 78
German III Honors, 78
German IV, 78
German V, 78
Global Connections - IS, 67
Global Connections 300, 67
Global Connections/English &
Communication I
Interdisciplinary, 67
Guitar I, 40
Guitar II, 41
H
Health 200, 57
Health 300, 57
History Electives, 68
Honors Accounting, 17
I
Independent Study, 9
Individual Skill Sports, 56
Individual/Dual Sports, 55
Instructional Programs, 72
Instrumental - Jazz, 40
Instrumental - Strings, 38
Instrumental - Winds &
Percussion, 39
Interior Design, 20
Introduction to Business, 17
Introduction to Culinary *
Pending Board Approval, 20
Introduction to Engineering
Design (PLTW), 22
Introduction to Teaching, 13
Issues in World Cultural
Geography, 69
J
Jazz Ensemble, 40
Jazz Ensemble Honors, 40
Jazz Lab Band, 40
Jewelry & Metalwork I, 47
Jewelry & Metalwork II, 47
Jewelry & Metalwork Studio, 47
Journalism Workshop
Yearbook, 32
Junior/Senior Selective
Curriculum, 55
K
Keyboarding/Formatting
Opposite Lunch, 18
L
Law in American Society, 70
Learning Resource Center (LRC),
72
84
Lifeguard Training, 56
Literacy Support Programs, 34
M
Math 1/1S, 50
Math 2 Honors, 50
Math 2/2S, 50
Math 3 Honors *Pending Board
Approval, 50
Math 3/3S *Pending Board
Approval, 50
Modern World History, 69
Multicultural Studies in
American Society *Pending
Board Approval, 69
Music, 37
N
National Collegiate Athletic
Association (NCAA), 5
Non-Performance, 40
O
Occupational and Career
Planning, 6
Oral Interpretation, 32
P
Painting II, 46
Painting III, 46
Partner Sports, 56
Pass-Fail, 9
Personal Economics, 70
Physical Education, 53
Physical Education and Wellness
I, 53, 54
Physical Education and Wellness
II, 54
Physical Education
Leader/Trainees Program, 54
Physical Exam/Immunization
Requirements, 9
Physical Science 200, 63
Physical Science 300, 63
Physics 300, 64
Physics 400 Honors, 64
Pop Music Styles, 41
PreCalculus 300, 51
PreCalculus 400, 51
Pre-Engineering, 22
Principles of Engineering, 22
Psychology, 71
R
Radio I, 32
Radio II, 33
Radio III, 33
Registration Process, 3
Research Topics in Earth Science,
63
S
Science, 59
Social Studies Electives, 69
Sociology, 71
Sociology of Gender, 71
Spanish for Native Speakers I, 80
Spanish for Native Speakers II, 80
Spanish I, 79
Spanish II, 79
Spanish III, 79
Spanish III Honors, 79
Spanish IV, 79
Spanish V, 80
Special Education Programs, 72
Special Services, 72
Sports and Entertainment
Marketing, 17
Strategies for Academic Success I,
34
Strategies for Academic Success I
- Resource, 34
Strategies for Academic Success
II, 34
Strategies for Academic Success
II - Resource, 35
Strategies for Academic Success
III, 35
Strategies for Academic Success
III - Resource, 35
Stress Management, 56
Summer School, 11
Symphonic Band, 39
Symphonic Orchestra, 38
Symphonic Orchestra Honors, 38
T
Team Sports, 56
Technical Drawing, 22
85
Television I, 33
Television II, 33
Theatre and Design Craft, 33
Treble Choir, 37
U
U.S. Foreign Policy, 70
U.S. History 300, 67
U.S. History-IS, 68
V
Visual Art, 42
W
Web Design, 18
Weighted Grades, 12
Wind Ensemble, 39
Wind Ensemble Honors, 39
Wind Symphony, 39
Withdrawing from a Scheduled
Class, 12
World Language, 75